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NFL free-agent rankings: Brian Burns, Saquon Barkley, Kirk Cousins lead the top 150

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2 years ago

February 20, 2024

NFL free-agent rankings: Brian Burns, Saquon Barkley, Kirk Cousins lead the top 150

NFL free agency is fast approaching, offering the first window for teams to improve this offseason, provided they sign the right players.

These are my rankings and scouting reports of the top 150 free agents available, shaped by a ton of film work and perspective from many years leading NFL personnel departments. This might not be exactly how you see it, but that’s why Baskin-Robbins has 31 flavors.

A few notes:

• While these rankings factor in age (as of Sept. 5, the scheduled date of the 2024 season opener) and known injury history, they do not consider medical or character information, as teams know much more about those subjects behind closed doors.

• At each position, I’ve included some stats I find valuable. At some positions, I’ve estimated play speed from what I can see on tape (not timed 40-yard-dash speed — there is a difference). At times, I’ve used play speed as a differentiator.

• If I were with an NFL team, this would be only one part of a multilevel process to establish consensus within the building. That consensus is missing from any rankings you’ll see, here or elsewhere. You can read more about my criteria and how an NFL GM approaches free agency here.

With that, let’s dive in.

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Age: 26 Height: 6-5 Weight: 250

Burns fits all the criteria teams look for in free agency: age, athletic ability and all-around game. His production was limited somewhat by the Panthers’ scheme, but his suddenness and pass rush package should translate to higher-volume production. Offenses must have a plan to deal with his ability each week. Carolina turned down multiple first-round picks for Burns in 2022, so the franchise tag seems likely. — Randy Mueller

Age: 29 Height: 6-5 Weight: 263

Hunter has been used from various alignments and is effective rushing the passer from all of them. He has upfield burst and countermoves to keep blockers guessing. He also understands how to set the edge with length and get off of blocks against the run. His skill set is hard to find, and despite entering his 10th season, he doesn’t turn 30 until October. — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 6-3 Weight: 305

Madubuike is a really good player who projects to a Pro Bowl level in any scheme. He shocks blockers on impact with heavy hands and explosive strength but can also beat you with quickness and agility. He blends all criteria better than any defensive tackle on this list. The Ravens often let players walk for compensatory picks, but Madubuike is a different caliber of player. The franchise tag or an extension seems likely. — Mueller

Age: 30 Height: 6-6 Weight: 310

Jones is no less impactful than Madubuike, and he has a knack for making big plays. His power and quickness are rare when he is engaged with desire. Stamina is always a bit of a question, but he is unblockable when he’s playing hard. I expect the Chiefs to value him more than other teams because of how perfectly he fits their defense. — Mueller

Age: 27 Height: 6-0 Weight: 232

Barkley’s natural instincts and vision to create beyond the play’s design make him special. He finishes like a 232-pound back should, with power and lean, but has the rare trait to make defenders miss as well. He’s also detailed and controlled as a route runner, which makes him the best three-down back available, even with durability concerns (25 games missed in six seasons, three in 2023). More than just a running back, he is a weapon. Other teams might value him more than the Giants do. — Mueller

Age: 27 Height: 6-5 Weight: 255

Allen put up outstanding production in 2023, but he was not quite as consistent on film. He’s a good player with elite skills, but at times, he was not as sudden as a rusher or in pursuit as he has been in the past. He picked his spots some. That said, he will still be in high demand (if the Jaguars don’t tag him). There is still upside here, which is scary. — Mueller

Age: 36 Height: 6-3 Weight: 205

Cousins is fundamental in every aspect of his game but at times can be mechanical and robotic. He is pretty efficient and has good intangibles. A tough leader who will stand in the pocket and can deliver most NFL throws, he has taken his skill set to a higher level with his mind and is still capable of being a mid-tier starting QB in the league, even coming off a significant injury. Will the Vikings be able to keep him as other suitors come calling? — Mueller

Age: 25 Height: 6-0 Weight: 196

Johnson will hit the market (if the Bears don’t tag or re-sign him before free agency) at the most opportune time. His combination of age, cover skills and adaptability to scheme will make him highly sought after. He can play both press and off coverage, and he reacts well to throws using his length, timing and ball skills. In a thin, aging cornerback class — only two made my top 65, and only four of the 13 in my top 150 are under age 28 — Johnson is the best and the youngest. — Mueller

Age: 31 Height: 6-4 Weight: 275

Smith surprised me as an addition to the top group of edge defenders. He showed top-level acceleration and burst as an outside, upfield rusher or while running tricks and games. He slips blocks, uses his hands and is really hard to block against the run as well. His motor will help his team’s defensive culture, and he’s stayed largely healthy since having back surgery in 2021. — Mueller

Age: 28 Height: 6-4 Weight: 310

Wilkins is an incredibly versatile defensive tackle, given where he aligns and his ability to blend quickness with power. He can play in any scheme. He’s strong at the point of attack but also has athletic ability and range. He’s a really good player, and his value keeps climbing after a career season. Will the Dolphins be able to keep him? — Mueller

Age: 27 Height: 6-3 Weight: 263

Greenard is extremely quick off the ball and when closing in pursuit. He has natural bend to squeeze the pocket and turn the corner as a rusher, and he’s capable of wrecking games. His size makes him a legit outside linebacker in base defenses. He should be coveted if he hits the market, even if durability (19 games missed in four seasons) is a slight question mark. — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 5-10 Weight: 223

Jacobs, who missed four games in 2023, has many of the same traits as Barkley, including power, good pad level and the ability to get more yards than the play is designed for. As a route runner, he is slightly less detailed than Barkley with his technique and slightly less nimble with his body control. But he carries the ball with a sense of anger and physicality that few have, and that is worth paying a premium for. — Mueller

Age: 27 Height: 6-1 Weight: 192

Sneed is an aggressive player who has great agility to go with his quick reactions when he trusts his skills. When he doesn’t trust his technique, penalties have been a problem. He is very tough and physical for his position, showing the willingness to mix it up against both the run and pass. His strength might be in the way he plays the ball at the moment of truth. The Chiefs, who also have DT Chris Jones hitting free agency, let Charvarius Ward walk in 2022. What will they do with Sneed? — Mueller

Age: 25 Height: 6-0 Weight: 201

McKinney plays like a traditional free safety. He transitions without any hiccups and shows sudden burst to close once redirected. He has great range and the ball skills to make plays when he gets there. His speed helps him catch up with almost anyone. Youth, athletic ability and instincts are all on his side. He’s my favorite among the available safeties. Will the Giants consider the franchise tag (projected at $16.3 million)? — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 6-4 Weight: 315

Cushenberry has the combination of strength and agility that everyone looks for in a center. He has now added a body of work to his resume and has shown improvement each season. He consistently sustains contact with controlling upper-body strength and active feet upon impact. He’s a really good player, and he appears likely to hit the market given how much Denver has invested elsewhere up front. — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 5-9 Weight: 203

A first-team All-Pro, Winfield was the most productive DB in this class on paper. He is great in the box and has both a nose for the ball and the instincts to anticipate against the run and the pass. He is also a good blitzer. His versatility is outstanding — he can play the nickel spot, too — and he’s always around the ball. He should get top money for the position, if the Bucs let him reach the market. — Mueller

Age: 27 Height: 6-4 Weight: 321

Dotson, who played on the right side in L.A., has very good feet and agility but is equally dependent on his explosive power and strength. He consistently turns defenders at the point of attack in the run game, and his punch is very effective at displacing pass rushers. He is one of the few free agents in this class who can knock people back on impact to create space. The Rams say they’d like to keep him, but he’s a really good player who should have a substantial market despite some injury history (11 games missed since 2021, three in 2023). — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 6-3 Weight: 255

Huff is a role player, as a pass rush specialist, but he has been very productive. He gets off the ball and under blocks as a pass rusher with incredible upfield burst. His pressure rate is the best in this free-agent class. His play against the run is a work in progress and will have to improve for him to become a full-time player. The Jets — who have already spent significant money and draft capital on the D-line — might struggle to afford him. — Mueller

Age: 27 Height: 6-4 Weight: 307

Runyan plays with excellent initial quickness, and his reactions and instincts are really good. He combo-blocks to linebackers effectively and plays with timing and very good awareness. It helps that he can also play with bend and a solid punch. He’s developing into one of the better guards in the NFC. The Packers have already paid left guard Elgton Jenkins, so Runyan will likely hit the market. — Mueller

Age: 29 Height: 6-1 Weight: 215

Mayfield fit in well in Tampa with his intangibles and leadership. His skill set and talent are enough to win games in the NFL, but he is not dynamic and won’t wow you with any one characteristic. He’s a very functional NFL starter, though. He should get a substantial raise from the $4 million he signed for in 2023. — Mueller

Age: 36 Height: 6-3 Weight: 295

Reports have said Kelce is retiring, but he has yet to address his future publicly. Even at age 36, he puts on a clinic in technique and how to play the center position. His footwork is a masterclass, and every step is intentional. He’s never hurt, not missing a game since 2014. If he elects to continue playing, some team (most likely the Eagles, the only team Kelce has played for) will get a front-line center. — Mueller

Age: 31 Height: 6-3 Weight: 240

Floyd is the second 30-something to crack this list as an edge player. He has a complete game, a nose for the football and plays hard consistently, even with eight seasons under his belt. That effort would be good for a team’s culture, but that might not be on the Bills, as Floyd has said he will “go where the money goes” in free agency. — Mueller

Age: 29 Height: 6-1 Weight: 190

Ridley represents the best combination of size, speed and hands in this group of receivers. He really comes off the ball quickly, eats up defenders’ cushions and gets in and out of breaks very quickly. His suddenness jumps out compared to other receivers, and he runs a complete route tree with the body control to win versus zone and man. He will frustrate you with occasional drops, but it’s more about lacking focus than hands. The Jaguars owe the Falcons a 2024 third-round pick from the 2022 trade for Ridley, but if they sign him to a new deal, they would instead owe a second-rounder. — Mueller

Age: 30 Height: 6-5 Weight: 300

Williams’ frame is rare, and he fits best as a five-technique in a three-man line, which is really hard to find. His length and hand usage are two of his biggest attributes. He’s not a skilled, high-level pass rusher but is very effective versus both the run and pass. His style and substance mirror Wilkins, but he’s been a shade less productive and is two years older. — Mueller

Age: 32 Height: 6-4 Weight: 320

Forget the numbers. Injuries derailed Jones’ season, but he can wreck the line of scrimmage when healthy. He provides really good push and gets penetration versus the run, and he’s a slippery interior pass rusher, too. He has a nose for the ball and gets off blocks. He lacks the length and range of the guys above him but fits best at nose and three-technique. The Bills, who face major cap constraints, have already paid Ed Oliver and have three free-agent DTs, suggesting Jones should hit the market. — Mueller

Age: 29 Height: 6-4 Weight: 330

Eluemunor has played right tackle in Las Vegas but might even be seen as a left tackle by some teams. He is a natural athlete with the feet and smooth agility to stay square on his targets, especially in pass protection. His ability to recover and play with consistent balance gives him a giant step up on the competition in this free-agent tackle pool. He makes it look easy at times. — Mueller

Age: 25 Height: 6-0 Weight: 230

The Ravens declined Queen’s fifth-year option after they paid Roquan Smith, but considering Queen’s age, instincts and playmaking production, he is the best option at this position. He can run, blitz and play the run or pass equally well. He can be impulsive at times, but he flies around and makes plays. — Mueller

Age: 27 Height: 6-3 Weight: 330

Simpson plays with the strength and physicality of an old-school guard. He can control with his upper body and strong hands but can also pull, lead and adjust. He needs to become more consistent, but he moves defenders in both the run and pass game. He’s trending to be a really good player, and the Ravens tend to let players sign elsewhere (and collect compensatory picks). Right guard Kevin Zeitler is also a free agent. — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 5-11 Weight: 173

Mooney’s high ranking is more about potential than his body of work. He can really run and shows the explosive ability to separate from coverage at every level. His ability to stretch the field can force opponents to defend the offense differently. His numbers will increase in a different scheme if the ball is delivered on time. Mooney does lack size, so he can be affected by incidental contact. Contested catches are the only small question I have. — Mueller

Age: 29 Height: 6-5 Weight: 258

Henry is a versatile, do-everything option who catches the ball well in traffic and when covered. He can get open with his athletic skills, his instincts or both. His numbers were down in 2023, mostly because of the scheme and the lack of talent around him. He’s also an adequate blocker who can sustain to make all blocks needed in the run game. He’s seeking his third NFL contract after playing out his three-year, $37.5 million deal in New England. — Mueller

Age: 27 Height: 6-3 Weight: 235

Luvu is a really good player despite being on his NFL second team. He is very instinctive and blends explosive pop with speed and athletic ability. He’s often all over the field, running and hitting everything — and ball carriers go down when he hits them. He’s also a really good blitzer with some natural pass rushing skill, and he’s hitting the market with his stock at its peak. — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 6-4 Weight: 223

Pittman is a first-down machine. His size and elite catch radius make him one of the top contested-catch receivers in the game. His physicality as a runner after catch (528 YAC, most among free-agent wideouts) makes him a weapon with the ball, too. He might not possess deep speed, but he has competitive speed to take short throws and turn them into much more than the play design intended. I would not be surprised if Pittman gets tagged because of his production and how he offers the Colts’ QBs security. His size means he’s open consistently, even when covered. — Mueller

Age: 33 Height: 6-5 Weight: 320

Smith is still a high-level performer at the toughest position on the line. He just has not been able to stay healthy. He played in 13 games in 2023, but that equaled his highest mark since 2015, and he missed 33 of 50 games from 2020 to 2022. When on the field, he is strong, displaces defenders with an explosive punch and understands how to cut off angles. His lateral range has suffered some due to the injuries, but his physical presence sends a message to the opposition. — Mueller

Age: 25 Height: 6-4 Weight: 219

Higgins missed five games this year, so his numbers were down, but he also appeared less explosive. I was surprised at how little juice I saw on tape. He’s not an elite athlete for the position, but I think he is better than his health allowed, as this season was not the best reflection of his skill set. He is a big target who is most effective on slants and using his body to screen off defenders. He can deceptively eat up cushion with his long stride, and his length and catch radius allow him to make contested catches. He might be more valuable to the Bengals than to the rest of the league, and I wouldn’t be surprised if they tagged him. — Mueller

Age: 34 Height: 6-5 Weight: 285

Autry was a surprise entry to this list for me. He has the length to fit at five-technique and is both strong at the point of attack and athletic enough to chase plays down in space. He plays like a younger man at a position where quality options don’t become available often. — Mueller

Age: 28 Height: 6-3 Weight: 309

Jones has really good quickness and lateral range for the position, and his instincts and nose for the ball make him very productive, as he anticipates blocks well. His get-off and ability to get up and down the line of scrimmage are his biggest strengths. He raised his stock considerably with a career-best season in 2023. — Mueller

Age: 25 Height: 6-5 Weight: 264

Young played well in the Super Bowl, but he ranked No. 24 of 43 qualifying edge rushers in Pro Football Focus’ pass rush productivity over his time with the 49ers and had pursuit issues in the NFC Championship Game against the Lions. Any concerns about effort seemed rectified against the Chiefs, and Young’s explosive performance should grab the NFL’s attention. Whether he returns will be a matter of price. — David Lombardi

Age: 31 Height: 6-5 Weight: 231

Evans had a season best described as up and down. He played angry at times and often seemed frustrated by little things, which showed in his body language. But he is still a big, strong dude who can move the chains, break tackles and make highlight catches. He remains very productive, but persistent drops gave me pause for concern. This was a perplexing evaluation for me, so his fit with the right team and scheme is paramount. — Mueller

Age: 29 Height: 6-3 Weight: 194

Don’t dismiss Reynolds because of his key drops in the NFC Championship Game — per PFF, he had only three drops during the whole regular season. He has size and a solid catch radius and made big grabs for his team all season long. He is physical, fighting through contact and drawing his share of pass interference calls. His speed is not elite, but he has the body control to get in and out of breaks very well for a big man. He should be a solid No. 2 WR in the league. — Mueller

Age: 31 Height: 6-5 Weight: 255

Baltimore proved to be the perfect fit for Clowney, who was looking to resurrect his career. He said he’d love to return, but he certainly earned a far bigger payday than the $2.5 million deal he signed with the Ravens last fall. In past offseasons, Baltimore has avoided spending big bucks on the outside linebacker position. — Jeff Zrebiec

Age: 26 Height: 5-10 Weight: 201

Gilman came out of nowhere and really impressed me. He’s very instinctive and has athletic skills that consistently put him in position to make plays. He closes with first-step acceleration and times pass breakups very well. He will tackle and play the run by wrapping with physicality. He also has a knack for the ball, always getting his hands on it. A sixth-round pick who has started only one full season, he might fly under the radar and prove to be a bargain. — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 6-3 Weight: 220

Don’t be discouraged by the lack of numbers. Chinn can run, tackle and close in coverage. He has the range of a free safety but hits like a Will ‘backer. He injured his quad and started only eight games in 2023. The runner-up for Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2020 is a better player than the numbers show. — Mueller

Age: 28 Height: 6-2 Weight: 222

Dugger, a 2020 second-round pick from Division II Lenoir-Rhyne, improved slowly through his first few seasons. He nabbed two pick sixes in a standout 2022 season, but 2023 wasn’t quite as good. He offers precisely what many modern defenses seek, with the size of a linebacker and the athleticism to drop deep as a safety. — Chad Graff

Age: 34 Height: 6-4 Weight: 340

Zeitler still sets culture with the Ravens by being physical and technique-sound. He plays with an old-school toughness but isn’t the same athlete he once was. His smarts and football IQ make up for any slip. He relies on his upper body more than engaging his legs and pad level, but he still has tread left as a top right guard. — Mueller

Age: 25 Height: 6-2 Weight: 225

Davis will not jump off the screen with his explosiveness, as he is more of a steady and consistent type. He is an easily identifiable target because of his size, especially versus zone defense. He can adjust and make catches outside his frame, and he’s physical while fighting through contact on his routes — being big and strong are obvious advantages. He is still developing as a route runner and as a coverage reader. Because of this, and given his age, he offers a lot of upside. He is solid in all areas, just not elite in any. — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 5-11 Weight: 208

A nickel with the Saints who has transitioned to safety the last two seasons, Gardner-Johnson moves very well, with smooth hips and transitions. He covers ground quickly and can cover tight ends and slot receivers man-to-man. He is still learning to tackle like a safety should. He is not physical. Injuries (including a torn pec in 2023) have stunted his development, but I see big upside given his skill. — Mueller

Age: 30 Height: 6-3 Weight: 335

Reader is more of a nose and/or three-technique. He has really good feet and agility in tight areas, and he plays with a consistent motor. He wears out offensive guards with relentless effort, which is impressive given his size. Durability is a bit of a concern (23 games missed in the past four seasons). — Mueller

Age: 29 Height: 6-2 Weight: 238

Edwards was the biggest surprise for me when watching this running back class. He has power and agility, and he’s always falling forward. Even though he is older, he has juice and acceleration, both laterally and vertically. He also has less than half of the career touches (729) that Barkley (1,489) and Jacobs (1,502) have. Edwards also has a great nose for sticks and has been way underutilized in the pass game. He has very good hands, can adjust outside his frame and will break tackles after the catch. — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 6-5 Weight: 258

Wonnum could be highly coveted by teams that need depth on the edge. He has developed into a solid, consistent player over the last four years, although he is recovering from a partially torn quad. He is one of three Vikings edge rushers (Danielle Hunter, Marcus Davenport) on this list. — Alec Lewis

Age: 31 Height: 5-11 Weight: 200

Opportunities and targets were limited for OBJ this season, but his skills and talent are still evident. He can run, he has the explosive ability to separate and he draws pass interference penalties as well as any other player in the NFL. He adjusts well to off-target throws and catches with his hands on par with the league’s elite. Even with his injury history, there is plenty more in the tank here if he should desire to move teams again. — Mueller

Age: 30 Height: 6-3 Weight: 247

King Henry can still be a culture-changing, identity-building running back for the right offense. The question is: Which offense will that be? He has natural vision and nifty feet to pick his way through the initial level of the defense. Even though he might lack a fifth gear at this stage, he is still really productive with his unique style. — Mueller

Age: 28 Height: 6-6 Weight: 330

Hunt, a four-year starter predominantly at right guard, missed a lot of time this year while battling a hamstring injury. He really needs to watch his weight and stamina. He brings a lot of mass to the point of attack and can get movement and cover up defenders consistently in the run game. His size and strength give him a natural anchor in pass protection as well. He just needs to stay healthy. — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 6-3 Weight: 350

Onwenu probably fits best at guard, but he’s been the Patriots’ most natural-footed athlete and best option at tackle. He lacks ideal length, but he plays with a good base and technique, allowing him to have very good position on contact and the ability to sustain with his balance and recovery. He has more than 1,300 career snaps at both right tackle and right guard, along with 386 snaps at left guard. — Mueller

Age: 29 Height: 6-4 Weight: 330

Entering his ninth NFL season, Robinson might be joining his fourth NFL team, but he doesn’t turn 30 until March 2025 and remains a good player. He can play three- or five-technique, which will make him a valued commodity. He’s better as a run defender than a pass rusher, with a nose for the ball and an ability to slip blocks. — Mueller

Age: 30 Height: 6-7 Weight: 316

Peat is a guard by trade but filled in well enough at left tackle this year that we are leaving him in the tackle group, but some might still see him as a guard. He is strong, powerful on impact and can lock on to sustain in both the run and pass game. He’s not fleet of foot but imposes his will with his frame and physical presence. He’s a better player than a lot of right tackles in the league, although all of his NFL experience is on the left side. — Mueller

Age: 33 Height: 6-4 Weight: 310

Cox can still rush the passer. His 43 pressures ranked 13th among all defensive tackles in 2023, according to TruMedia. With Jordan Davis and Jalen Carter expected to step into larger roles, Cox might become a rotational backup if he re-signs with Philadelphia. Retirement is also a possibility. — Brooks Kubena

Age: 29 Height: 6-4 Weight: 299

Coleman shows good quickness, hands and reactions, along with a strong feel for the game, making him a possible upgrade for many NFL teams. He isn’t the biggest or strongest, but he blends a certain patience with a high-motor intensity to be effective in both the run and pass games. He is more of a finesse type than a power player when it comes to style. Solid NFL center. — Mueller

Age: 28 Height: 6-2 Weight: 310

Wynn is on his second team after being a first-round pick of the Patriots in 2018. He has also played some at offensive tackle but found comfort and his natural position this year at left guard before getting injured in Week 7. He has all the physical tools to be a top talent, with both quickness and athletic ability, but injuries — he has played in just 50 of 99 possible games through six seasons — are a major concern. — Mueller

Age: 25 Height: 5-9 Weight: 215

Swift might lack the power and low pad level of the backs above him here, but he has plenty of wiggle to make people miss and burst to escape tacklers in tight areas. He’s just not the finisher that some bigger-bodied guys are. He catches the ball easily, is very effective running angle routes and can adjust smoothly to bad throws. Given his youth, he could merit a three- or four-year contract. — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 6-4 Weight: 249

Fant is better than the numbers show. With development, he still has the upside that made him a first-round pick in 2019. Part of a three-man rotation at tight end in Seattle, he should be able to showcase his skills more in a different scheme. He can run and separate, with the athletic ability to attack all quadrants of the field. He also has the ball skills to catch and adjust outside his frame. As a blocker, he shows strength and “want to” as well. He could be a good value for somebody. — Mueller

Age: 31 Height: 6-4 Weight: 269

The Macon, Ga., native enjoyed playing close to home and had his best season since 2020. Dupree can play outside linebacker or a more traditional defensive end spot (like he did for the Falcons), which might make him a good fit for more teams. — Josh Kendall

Age: 27 Height: 6-4 Weight: 311

A Pro Bowler in 2021, Jackson has been a mainstay at left guard on one of the best offensive lines in football. He’s mobile in space, powerful at the line of scrimmage and a remarkably consistent lineman when healthy — and he’s young. The Lions might not be able to keep him. — Colton Pouncy

Age: 33 Height: 6-4 Weight: 295

Hubbard was the Titans’ starter and full-time right tackle for nine games before injuring biceps and missing the balance of the season. He lacks ideal size but has excellent quickness and agility, particularly his lateral agility. He’s not well known around the league but is tough and consistent, and I love the way he competes. I think he can produce regardless of his measurables, even in the back end of his career. — Mueller

Age: 28 Height: 6-5 Weight: 244

Schultz is a threat in the pass game because of his athletic ability and body control. He catches everything, can get open on his own without scheme help and is a tough matchup for linebackers because of his route running instincts. In the run game, he’s a positional blocker who lacks top-notch strength to sustain at times. He is worthy of a multiyear deal after settling for a one-year contract last offseason. — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 6-0 Weight: 237

White is very quick to key and diagnose and is an excellent tackler. He might be the most versatile of the off-ball linebackers, from both an alignment and skill set standpoint. He can blitz and come downhill to attack ball carriers. He’s a solid tackler as well. He missed three games in 2023 but has mostly been healthy in his career. — Mueller

Age: 33 Height: 6-3 Weight: 250

Despite not signing with the Ravens until Week 4, Van Noy had one of the best seasons of his career, playing on a one-year, $1.4 million deal. He showed he has plenty of juice left, meaning he probably won’t have to wait as long to find his 2024 team. — Jeff Zrebiec

Age: 27 Height: 5-10 Weight: 200

The best nickel defender in this class, Nixon has a knack for reading and reacting to routes and diagnosing plays. He has catch-up burst to run with crossers and deeper routes. Some might view him as a starter, but at minimum, he should be a solid third cornerback/nickel. He also brings special teams value, earning first-team All-Pro honors as a kick returner in 2022 and 2023. — Mueller

Age: 28 Height: 6-1 Weight: 237

The Texans clearly leaned on Cashman for responsibility on defense, as he made all the adjustment calls, shifts to the front, etc. He can run, has very good twitch and sees the game well. His reads and reactions are consistent, and he has a good nose for the ball. He can go sideline-to-sideline but also still come downhill with some force. He has a bit of an injury history and just 21 starts in five seasons, but teams will be interested. — Mueller

Age: 31 Height: 5-11 Weight: 194

Already a veteran of four teams, Nelson is a more experienced option at cornerback who had a solid body of work in 2023. He understands how to play and positions himself accordingly. He still is very light on his feet, can mirror in man-to-man coverage and closes with top-flight suddenness. — Mueller

Age: 29 Height: 5-10 Weight: 200

Ekeler’s 21 first downs via reception led this group of backs in 2023. He is slippery after the catch and runs bigger than his size, forcing arm tacklers to miss like a larger back. He has really good natural vision to find daylight and a nose for the goal line. He has plenty of gas left in his tank from a speed and acceleration standpoint, but he’s at his best when supplemented with an early-down back. — Mueller

Age: 28 Height: 6-6 Weight: 265

The Vikings could give Davenport an extension to push back some of his $6.8 million in dead cap, but he didn’t do much in 2023 to earn one. He battled ankle injuries and played in only four games. He has recorded only 2.5 sacks in the last two seasons combined but still has talent. — Alec Lewis

Age: 30 Height: 5-11 Weight: 193

Another journeyman cornerback who’s still playing well, Darby was not a full-time player in Baltimore (his fifth team) coming off a torn ACL in 2022. But when he played, he showed the ability to run and play man-to-man along with various zone techniques. A willing tackler, he is still athletic enough to make up ground and close with suddenness. — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 6-0 Weight: 240

Brooks is a very active inside linebacker who really has no holes in his game, but he’s slightly less explosive as an athlete than the three linebackers ahead of him on this list. He can play on all three downs, and his football IQ stands out. The Seahawks seem unlikely to bring back Bobby Wagner, who is also a free agent, so perhaps they’ll prioritize re-signing Brooks. — Mueller

Age: 38 Height: 6-8 Weight: 282

Campbell started all 17 games and contributed to the Falcons’ defensive turnaround. He finished the season playing at a high level and said he would like to play at least another year if the circumstances are right. His chances of re-signing in Atlanta declined upon defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen’s move to Jacksonville. — Josh Kendall

Age: 26 Height: 6-3 Weight: 316

Biadasz relies on upper-body strength and hands to stay connected in the run game. He is not always as square on contact as he could be, so he has to fight to regain his balance some. He is very effective on angle blocks and double teams. He’s a young and improving player. — Mueller

Age: 33 Height: 6-0 Weight: 190

The Cowboys would probably love to have Gilmore back for another season. He played well in 2023. But already having Trevon Diggs and DaRon Bland means Dallas will likely not be willing to spend much on its No. 3 cornerback. Gilmore would have to be willing to take something very team-friendly. Jourdan Lewis is also a free agent. — Jon Machota

Age: 29 Height: 6-4 Weight: 242

Van Ginkel can play off the ball or on the edge, where he impressed in 2023 while filling in for the injured Bradley Chubb and Jaelan Phillips, ranking 10th in pressure rate among all players with at least 200 pass rush snaps, per TruMedia. He could have untapped potential if he finds a larger role. — David DeChant

Age: 28 Height: 6-4 Weight: 305

Opeta started six games in 2023 (five at right guard) offering depth while the Eagles battled injuries up front. He surrendered 21 pressures, fifth-most among guards who played within his range of snaps (516), according to TruMedia, but he’s shown flashes to merit a starting role. — Brooks Kubena

Age: 28 Height: 5-11 Weight: 195

Samuel has played mainly in the slot but might be better suited to move outside. No matter where he plays, his versatility should be viewed by most teams as a strength. He has excellent quickness and explosiveness and can change speeds to stretch defenses. He would be a clear-cut upgrade for many teams. He is instinctive and gets to open areas quickly against zone coverage. I see him as an undervalued player who still has upside, but he would be on his third team if he leaves Washington. — Mueller

Age: 29 Height: 5-11 Weight: 198

Fuller’s speed has declined, but his anticipation and instincts help offset that. Even so, he’s approaching 30 and has some knee concerns, making his market a bit murky. With Benjamin St-Juste and Emmanuel Forbes around, he doesn’t seem likely to return to Washington, which will miss his leadership. — Ben Standig

Age: 34 Height: 6-1 Weight: 233

David is a smart and instinctive football player who makes all the calls and directs traffic. He’s trusted by coaches and has minimal wasted movements or actions. He’s an efficient, steady player, even if he’s slipped a bit from his peak as he enters Year 13. — Mueller

Age: 28 Height: 6-1 Weight: 188

Yiadom had his best season on his fifth team in 2023, breaking up 14 passes while allowing just 23 completions on 47 targets, per Pro Football Reference. Through his first five seasons, he had just 13 PBUs while allowing 101 completions on 155 targets. He’ll have to convince teams that this season wasn’t an outlier. — David DeChant

Age: 26 Height: 6-6 Weight: 312

Cleveland made 49 starts over three-plus seasons with the Vikings before the Jaguars acquired him at the trade deadline this season. An offensive tackle at Boise State, he has spent most of his NFL career at left guard, where he allowed three sacks on 476 pass blocking snaps last season, per TruMedia. — David DeChant

Age: 26 Height: 6-0 Weight: 202

Blackmon is a very good athlete with range, easy and fluid hips and the ability to cover ground in the deep part of the field. He is what we call a “run and hit” guy. His center-field tracking and ball skills are top-notch, although his injury history is lengthy, including a torn ACL in 2019 at Utah, a torn Achilles in 2021 and a shoulder injury in 2023. — Mueller

Age: 25 Height: 6-6 Weight: 260

Epenesa has a good blend of speed and power that makes him unblockable on some reps, though there is still some inconsistency to his game. Regardless, entering his age-26 season with 13 sacks in the last two seasons as only a part-time player, he has the profile of a player whom teams flock to in free agency. He might get a bigger contract than some expect. — Joe Buscaglia

Age: 29 Height: 6-0 Weight: 228

Zeke can still pick his way through traffic and put his foot in the ground to accelerate with conviction and pop. He still breaks arm tackles but might be lacking the breakaway speed he once had. He’s very good in the pass game on screens and dump-offs, getting yards on his own. He moves the chains effectively and could easily be considered a starting back for many NFL teams. — Mueller

Age: 27 Height: 6-4 Weight: 300

James has largely stayed healthy and maintained a baseline level of play in his three years starting at center for the Raiders, but he can be overpowered at times. Las Vegas can likely do better at the position. — Tashan Reed

Age: 27 Height: 5-9 Weight: 180

Brown remains very fast, and he’s been productive for stretches, but he’s also battled nagging injuries and caught just half of his targets in 2023. He’s very slight and gets knocked off of routes easily, an issue that can be difficult for offensive coordinators to scheme around. — Mueller

Age: 27 Height: 6-5 Weight: 253

Trautman is more effective in the pass game than the run game. He has above-average body control, and nobody adjusted to more balls outside his catching radius — his numbers reflected this. He lacks ideal strength and power in the run game but works for position and can lean on defenders. There is more in his tank from a production standpoint. — Mueller

Age: 25 Height: 6-4 Weight: 322

Charles never stuck at tackle or guard for Washington, as he battled injuries and inconsistency, including losing his starting job at left guard this past season. He’s not likely to return to the Commanders. — Ben Standig

Age: 27 Height: 6-2 Weight: 320

Gallimore played in all 17 games last season, totaling one sack and two tackles for loss. If the price is right, the 2020 third-round pick could be back, but that depends on the Cowboys’ other options as they look to improve their run defense, and whether Gallimore can find a bigger role elsewhere. — Jon Machota

Age: 25 Height: 6-7 Weight: 363

Becton is a large man who can create space on impact and cover up defenders on contact. He lacks ideal lateral range and the ability to recover when off-balance. His inconsistencies show consistently. His injury history is also concerning, even though he started 16 of 17 games in 2023, predominantly at left tackle — Mueller

Age: 28 Height: 5-11 Weight: 190

A regular starter in Jacksonville in 2019 and 2020, Herndon has been relegated to the third cornerback role since 2021, playing predominantly in the slot. He doesn’t have an interception since 2019, but his experience and versatility will offer value somewhere. — David DeChant

Age: 26 Height: 6-5 Weight: 319

For the first time in his career, Kinlaw was healthy for a whole season. He had some midseason struggles against the run but delivered in big moments and totaled 35 pressures as a pass rusher. The 2020 first-round pick’s future looks bright, and the Niners might struggle to keep him. — David Lombardi

Age: 26 Height: 6-1 Weight: 295

Brewer allowed seven sacks in 2023, per TruMedia, as the whole Titans offensive line struggled. However, he’s young, experienced (40 starts) and versatile (experience at both left and right guard), with the mobility that zone-heavy running teams covet. — David DeChant

Age: 26 Height: 6-5 Weight: 312

Williams moved from left tackle to right tackle this season but has the same game. He is very quick and athletic, and he can move in space with balance. He still lacks power and anchor once engaged but did a better job of being physical in 2023 while playing every snap for Cincinnati. — Mueller

Age: 28 Height: 6-6 Weight: 245

Gesicki is a one-dimensional, pass-catching tight end who can also line up in the slot as a bigger wideout. Not a prototype Y in a regular personnel group, he needs to be used as a matchup or red zone option to be productive. His blocking lags behind the tight ends above him on this list. — Mueller

Age: 27 Height: 6-3 Weight: 225

Darnold had less than 50 attempts this season in San Francisco, but he displayed physical talent and intangibles, showing why he was drafted highly in 2018. His arm strength, accuracy and ability to process finally fit into a scheme for the first time in his career. He’s a viable option to upgrade a team if he were allowed to compete for a starting job. — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 6-2 Weight: 240

A surprise in a good way for me, Smith is a borderline starting tight end, but he’s more skilled than that, and increased usage would improve his numbers. He’s very capable of being an option as move tight end or H-back. He runs well and can stretch the field, which could make him a value signing. — Mueller

Age: 27 Height: 6-2 Weight: 228

The third linebacker behind Fred Warner and Dre Greenlaw with the 49ers, Al-Shaair followed Ran Carthon to Tennessee last offseason on a one-year deal and finished fifth in the NFL with 163 tackles. He can improve his coverage awareness, but he’s a starting-caliber player who could still have upside. — David DeChant

Age: 33 Height: 6-8 Weight: 327

Even though Lucas played less than 25 percent of the snaps for Washington (all on the left side) in 2023, his length and technique have proven to be very effective at combatting speed rushes and protecting on an island at tackle. He might just be a starting option for a needy team, or at least as a third offensive tackle. — Mueller

Age: 27 Height: 6-0 Weight: 209

In Pollard’s first year as the Cowboys’ “bell cow,” I’d give him a B-minus. He lacks power and downhill physicality between the tackles, but he’s nifty and runs with good balance. He can be a factor breaking arm tackles and as a receiver out of the backfield. He runs with discipline and intentionality but is not a creator of plays on his own. — Mueller

Age: 35 Height: 6-1 Weight: 217

Even at 35, Taylor can be a solid backup. He makes good decisions for the most part and can administrate the offense while offering plus athletic ability. He has enough arm, gets the ball out quickly and can throw accurately downfield. — Mueller

Age: 34 Height: 6-0 Weight: 242

Wagner led the NFL in tackles in 2023, but he can’t move like he used to. He would like to play a 13th NFL season, and he’d like to do it wearing a Seahawks uniform, but with Pete Carroll out as coach, a reunion would appear unlikely. Seahawks linebackers Jordyn Brooks and Devin Bush are also free agents. — Michael-Shawn Dugar

Age: 36 Height: 6-4 Weight: 217

Best suited as a backup at this stage, Tannehill can still process coverage, but his release seems to have slowed a bit. He is athletic and can be deceptively effective while extending plays or tucking and running for a first down. His arm velocity is average at this point in his career, and the ball does not jump off his hand. He can stand in the pocket, if protected, and make most NFL throws. — Mueller

Age: 27 Height: 5-7 Weight: 203

A versatile, undersized but productive back, Singletary uses lateral quickness more than explosive north-south speed to make defenders miss. He has natural vision to find holes but can go down easily at times because of his smaller frame. He’s a good fit in the Texans’ scheme. — Mueller

Age: 27 Height: 5-11 Weight: 198

Savage flashed his talent during an all-rookie first season, but never truly lived up to that playmaking potential over the next four years. He missed seven games this season with a recurring calf injury. The Packers have decisions to make with several contributing defensive backs hitting free agency. — Matt Schneidman

Age: 25 Height: 5-11 Weight: 210

Not tendered as a restricted free agent last offseason, Stone re-signed with the Ravens on a reduced deal and had the best year of his career. He led the AFC with seven interceptions and started 11 games. Also a solid special teams player, Stone has earned himself a nice-sized contract and a starting spot. — Jeff Zrebiec

Age: 28 Height: 6-7 Weight: 314

Nijman wasn’t a regular starter in 2023, but he’s experienced on both sides, especially at left tackle. He has size, athleticism and the ability to bend, working to engage his lower body as a run blocker and pass blocker. He catches more than he punches, but he plays under control with the balance to recover. He has the length to play on an island and actually was effective against top pass rushers. He is hesitant at times to see and react to stunts, but that should improve with reps. — Mueller

Age: 30 Height: 6-1 Weight: 203

Pringle isn’t a household name, but he has a great combination of size and speed, plus reliable hands when throws come his way (69.5 catch rate in his career). He also has some juice as a kick returner. He could fit nicely in an offense that needs a speedy third or fourth receiver. — David DeChant

Age: 29 Height: 6-4 Weight: 254

Hooper still has the hands, body control and feel versus zone coverage to be very productive. He can’t run like he once could but is effective because of his football IQ and consistent ability to separate on short routes. — Mueller

Age: 32 Height: 6-5 Weight: 322

A third tackle option who started 13 games on the right side as an injury replacement in 2023, Fant has always been one of the better athletes at the position. He just lacks ideal power and anchor. Assuming Tytus Howard returns healthy for the Texans in 2024, Fant would likely return to the bench if he re-signs with Houston. — Mueller

Age: 25 Height: 5-7 Weight: 207

The 2020 first-round pick, who has battled injuries throughout his career, wound up being the Chiefs’ primary backup to Isiah Pacheco. He really has a knack for making defenders miss after the catch, averaging 13.4 YAC per reception, tops in this group. He is quicker than he is fast and can gain yards when plays are not blocked as designed. — Mueller

Age: 25 Height: 6-3 Weight: 240

Uche appeared primed for a big payday, but that probably won’t be on the table after his production dipped. In 2022, he was one of the NFL’s leaders in pressure rate, notching 11.5 sacks. But without Matthew Judon on the other side for most of 2023, Uche’s pressure rate and sack numbers (3.5) dipped. Now he’s likely headed toward a one-year, prove-it deal. — Chad Graff

Age: 27 Height: 6-2 Weight: 327

A four-year starter in Seattle (the last three seasons at left guard), Lewis might be a little bit heavy, which affected his stamina late in games. But that size helps him get significant push in the run game. As a pass blocker, he’s inconsistent adjusting laterally but holds up very well against power rushes. His agility is what worries me the most, but for teams that prioritize a downhill run game, he’d be a good fit. — Mueller

Age: 27 Height: 6-5 Weight: 312

Williams battled nagging injuries in college and early in his NFL career, and then he missed the second half of 2023 with a torn ACL. He has shown impressive stretches while playing guard and center, but durability is a significant concern. — David DeChant

Age: 36 Height: 6-2 Weight: 265

The ageless wonder wants to come back to Philly for what he called a one-year “farewell tour.” It’s hard to project Graham’s future as anything other than 1) playing for the Eagles in 2024 or 2) retiring. His snap share has steadily diminished from 69 percent in 2020 to 33 percent in 2023, but he’s still an efficient pass rusher. — Brooks Kubena

Age: 29 Height: 6-5 Weight: 235

Rudolph showed enough while starting the Steelers’ last three regular-season games to earn a shot to compete. He showed improved poise and pocket awareness to go with his impressive deep ball ability, which was evident in college at Oklahoma State. He is a viable backup in the right scheme. — Mueller

Age: 32 Height: 6-1 Weight: 236

Hicks was a captain and called the Vikings’ defensive signals, and he performed admirably on the field. He’s not the fastest nor the most physical, but his discipline and experience will keep any defense in check. Although he missed four games in 2023, he previously hadn’t missed a game since 2018, putting early-career injury woes behind him. — Alec Lewis

Age: 27 Height: 6-4 Weight: 255

Armstrong would get a lot more attention if the Cowboys didn’t already have Micah Parsons, DeMarcus Lawrence and Sam Williams. He is a good player, finishing second on the team in sacks each of the last two seasons (8.5 in 2022, 7.5 in 2023) despite making only six total starts. His price tag will likely be too high for Dallas. — Jon Machota

Age: 31 Height: 6-4 Weight: 235

Brissett was remarkably efficient in relief of Sam Howell — leading touchdowns on five consecutive possessions — but that shouldn’t be the expectation. If Washington brings him back on a one- or two-year contract, he would mentor whichever rookie it drafts at No. 2. — Ben Standig

Age: 34 Height: 6-1 Weight: 212

Gipson has been a revelation for the 49ers since they signed him during the 2022 preseason following Jimmie Ward’s injury. The Niners retained Gipson for $2.9 million last season. With Talanoa Hufanga rehabbing from a torn ACL, another one-year deal might make sense if Gipson chooses to continue playing. — David Lombardi

Age: 29 Height: 6-1 Weight: 235

Walker struggled with a handful of injuries late in the 2023 season after missing most of 2022 with a quad injury. The linebacker position seems to rank last in positional priority with the folks running the Browns, so he likely won’t be back. — Zac Jackson

Age: 29 Height: 6-2 Weight: 234

Tranquill was a key part of the Chiefs’ deep linebacker rotation, tying for third on the team in tackles in the regular season despite playing just 57 percent of the snaps. He’s a dangerous blitzer who excels at creating negative plays, logging 9.5 sacks, 15 QB hits, 17 tackles for loss and three forced fumbles over the last two seasons. — David DeChant

Age: 29 Height: 6-5 Weight: 312

Risner hit the open market last offseason and was not as sought after as he hoped. He signed with Minnesota three weeks into September and became a starter at left guard in Week 7. Pass protection is his strength. The Vikings are likely to want Risner back, but they won’t be the only team interested. — Alec Lewis

Age: 29 Height: 6-0 Weight: 179

Wallace had six interceptions and 24 passes defensed in his two seasons with the Steelers, who would love to have him back but won’t consider him a high priority. He shouldn’t be in high demand, which would allow the Steelers to snoop around for somebody younger with more upside. — Mark Kaboly

Age: 28 Height: 6-1 Weight: 225

Minshew stepped into a less-than-ideal situation after Anthony Richardson’s injury and played winning football in 2023. He finished with 18 total TDs (15 passing, three rushing) against 14 total turnovers (nine interceptions, five lost fumbles), so it wasn’t always pretty, but I think Indianapolis should prioritize bringing him back. — James Boyd

Age: 29 Height: 6-2 Weight: 236

An instinctive player, Jewell has the football IQ to administrate the defense, make calls and get others lined up. He relies on his reads and reactions more than speed and range, but he shows a consistent nose for the ball and has been productive. He won’t make plays beyond the scope of the scheme, but his discipline will be welcome anywhere. — Mueller

Age: 30 Height: 6-4 Weight: 260

Swaim is the best and most consistent run blocker of all tight ends in this class. He’s physical, strong and very willing — which should not be assumed as a given, even at the NFL level. He does the dirty work. — Mueller

Age: 29 Height: 5-10 Weight: 210

Released by the Vikings, Cook flopped with the Jets before being waived, then went unclaimed on waivers and played sparingly for Baltimore in one playoff game. As low as his stock is now, he averaged 4.4 yards per carry in 2022 and doesn’t turn 30 until August 2025. — David DeChant

Age: 27 Height: 5-11 Weight: 203

Osborn had a disappointing season, dropping seven passes, according to PFF. But he was rarely the primary read, and he’s a strong blocker and runner after the catch. He’s probably in line for a short-term deal between $5 million and $8 million. — Alec Lewis

Age: 25 Height: 6-1 Weight: 205

Injured for most of the 2023 season, Henderson — who was a first-round pick by the Jaguars on 2020 — has the height, weight and skill set to be a quality cornerback. He just needs a larger body of work. He would rank higher if healthy. — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 6-2 Weight: 229

Untendered by the Packers as a restricted free agent last offseason, Barnes joined the Cardinals and flashed as a part-time starter, logging 55 tackles and six passes defensed in only 408 defensive snaps. Arizona has plenty of cap space if it wants to keep him. — David DeChant

Age: 39 Height: 6-6 Weight: 245

I find it hard to believe any team is going to make Flacco its starter, but he played well enough to draw interest — and maybe command more money than the Browns want to pay a backup QB. Given Flacco’s popularity in the locker room, can Cleveland risk bringing him back in case Deshaun Watson struggles, or would that undermine Watson? — Zac Jackson

Age: 29 Height: 6-2 Weight: 196

Davis has ideal physical traits. The Chargers saw those traits turn into congruous production only in spurts, however, as he excelled late in 2022 but struggled in 2023. A line-up-and-play, heavy-man-coverage system could be a better fit than Brandon Staley’s scheme was. — Daniel Popper

Age: 26 Height: 6-2 Weight: 203

A starter from Day 1 despite being drafted in the sixth round, Fuller has been productive and does a good job of minimizing damage on the back end. He is not a dynamic athlete, nor is he physical, but he shows good understanding and instincts. He just lacks the burst and ideal play speed to be a long-term answer for the Rams. — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 6-0 Weight: 208

Rapp was signed to be the Bills’ third safety, but when he was asked to start, he struggled. He was a touch too late on some big-play attempts and accrued some reckless personal foul penalties. However, Rapp is still young and could find a stable starting role for a modest salary this offseason. — Joe Buscaglia

Age: 30 Height: 6-4 Weight: 231

Winston has fit well in the Saints’ locker room, but he’s been uneven in 21 appearances (10 starts) with New Orleans over the last four seasons. His best stretch came during seven games as a starter in 2021 before tearing his ACL. His coach that season, Sean Payton, might need a new QB in Denver … — David DeChant

Age: 30 Height: 6-2 Weight: 305

Rankins has a strong all-around skill set, providing versatility in where he can align and his style of play. He’s agile and can get an edge as an inside rusher. He also plays well with his hands and shows good range, even outside the tackle box. His effort and anticipation remain strengths as he enters his ninth season. — Mueller

Age: 28 Height: 5-11 Weight: 200

An All-Pro special-teamer in 2022, Reaves’ 2023 season ended early due to a torn ACL, but he could be a useful third safety for somebody. — Mueller

Age: 28 Height: 6-1 Weight: 312

A regular starter in 2021 and 2022 with the Rams, Gaines was relegated to a backup role in Tampa, where his numbers dipped while playing behind Vita Vea, Calijah Kancey and Logan Hall. He’s not much of a pass rusher, but he should provide value in a D-line rotation. — David DeChant

Age: 28 Height: 5-11 Weight: 185

Jackson is coming off his worst season with the Giants since signing a three-year, $39 million contract in 2021. His durability concerns (18 games missed from 2020 to 2021) continued in New York, as he missed 14 games in three seasons. He can still cover, and his flexibility to play in the slot adds value, but he struggles with tackling. — Dan Duggan

Age: 29 Height: 6-2 Weight: 203

All signs point to the end in Cincinnati for Boyd, who should have a market among teams searching for a slot receiver. His reliability and savvy will be gold for any team grooming a young quarterback. He’ll probably end up with a multiyear deal in the $7-9 million per season range, which would be too rich for the Bengals’ balance sheet. — Paul Dehner Jr.

Age: 31 Height: 6-5 Weight: 242

Gregory is still a talented pass rusher. He can turn the corner, but he can also turn straight-line speed into power. He struggles to hold a disciplined edge and maintain leverage against ball carriers and scrambling QBs. He gets caught inside consistently. But his effort with the 49ers was good, and he could provide value as a situational pass rusher on a cheap deal somewhere. — Mueller

Age: 29 Height: 5-11 Weight: 210

Owens entered the starting lineup because of injury in 2023 but held onto his starting spot. Outside of a couple of glaring missed tackles against the Chargers and 49ers, he wasn’t a liability, although the Packers could use more of a game-changer at the position. — Matt Schneidman

Age: 27 Height: 6-4 Weight: 228

Lock has appeared in only four games (two starts) since 2021, highlighted by his 92-yard, game-winning touchdown drive against the Eagles this season. He remains turnover-prone (three INTs on 76 attempts in 2023), but perhaps that shining moment will draw a few suitors. — David DeChant

Age: 28 Height: 6-2 Weight: 215

Known primarily for his blocking, Brown posted a career-high 567 receiving yards in just 10 games in 2023, averaging 17.2 yards per catch (fourth-best among all players with at least 30 receptions). His skill set should interest teams that need a quality third or fourth receiver. — David DeChant

Age: 33 Height: 6-6 Weight: 281

Sturdily built with strong hands, Gholston has been a quality run defender throughout his career, playing base end in a 4-3 scheme or five- and three-technique in a 3-4. His snaps dipped in 2023, but he should still contribute to a rotation somewhere. — David DeChant

Age: 27 Height: 6-3 Weight: 225

An undersized edge rusher in college, Baun played almost exclusively off the ball for the Saints in his first three seasons. Back on the edge in 2023, he showed flashes, beating Penei Sewell cleanly for his first career sack and posting four QB hits and 11 pressures over the final six games. Perhaps another team will provide a better fit. — David DeChant

Age: 30 Height: 6-4 Weight: 222

Mariota remains a solid backup with good mobility, which is useful behind one of the league’s more mobile starters in Jalen Hurts. Will the Eagles retain him, or will they prefer 2023 sixth-round pick Tanner McKee (or someone else)? — Brooks Kubena

Undeniable

Relive the Kansas City Chiefs’ unforgettable 2023 championship season. Undeniable takes fans from training camp through the final whistle in Las Vegas.

Relive the Kansas City Chiefs’ unforgettable 2023 championship season.

Nate Taylor, Dan Pompei, Zak Keefer and The Athletic NFL Staff

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— The Athletic’s James Boyd, Joe Buscaglia, Paul Dehner Jr., Michael-Shawn Dugar, Dan Duggan, Chad Graff, Zac Jackson, Mark Kaboly, Josh Kendall, Brooks Kubena, David Lombardi, Jon Machota, Daniel Popper, Tashan Reed, Matt Schneidman, Ben Standig and Jeff Zrebiec contributed to this story.

(Top illustration: Daniel Goldfarb / The Athletic; photos of, from left, Kirk Cousins, Brian Burns and Saquon Barkley: Stephen Maturen, David Jensen / Getty Images, Michael Owens / Associated Press)

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Falcons hire franchise legend Matt Ryan to major front office role

Published

10 hours ago

January 10, 2026

Press Room

Falcons hire franchise legend Matt Ryan to major front office role

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The Atlanta Falcons have added one of the team’s greatest players to its front office.

The Falcons announced on Saturday that former quarterback Matt Ryan, who spent the first 14 years of his 15-year NFL career with the team after being drafted third overall in 2008, will be president of football on Saturday. The 40-year-old Ryan, who holds team records for passing yards, touchdowns and wins, will assume the new role immediately.

Ryan will report directly to owner Arthur Blank and collaborate with president and CEO Greg Beadles to ensure the alignment of the business and football areas of the organization.

Former Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) on the sideline before he is inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor at halftime of a game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, on Oct. 3, 2024. (Brett Davis/Imagn Images)

“Throughout his remarkable 14-year career in Atlanta, Matt’s leadership, attention to detail, knowledge of the game and unrelenting drive to win made him the most successful player in our franchise’s history,” Blank said in a statement.

“I am confident those same qualities will be a tremendous benefit to our organization as he steps into this new role. From his playing days to his time as an analyst at CBS, Matt has always been a student of the game, and he brings an astute understanding of today’s NFL, as well as unique knowledge of our organization and this market. I have full confidence and trust in Matt as we strive to deliver a championship caliber team for Atlanta and Falcons fans everywhere.”

The Falcons fired head coach Raheem Morris on Sunday after back-to-back 8-9 seasons. The Falcons had won their last four games, leading some to believe Morris might be afforded a third season, but Blank had other plans.

AARON RODGERS TAKES THINLY-VEILED SHOT AT JETS AHEAD OF STEELERS’ PLAYOFF GAME

CBS Sports broadcaster Matt Ryan before a game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High in Denver, Colorado, on Nov. 16, 2025. (Ron Chenoy/Imagn Images)

The Falcons also fired general manager Terry Fontenot after five seasons on Sunday. Ryan will be fully involved in the team’s search for the Falcons’ next head coach and general manager.

“Arthur gave me the chance of a lifetime almost twenty years ago, and he’s done it again today,” Ryan said in a statement.

“While I appreciate the time I had with the Colts and with CBS, I’ve always been a Falcon. It feels great to be home. I could not be more excited, grateful, or humbled by this new opportunity. I began my career with a singular goal: to do right by the Blank family, the Falcons organization, the City of Atlanta, and especially our fans. My commitment to the success of this franchise has not changed. I’m beyond ready to help write a new chapter of excellence.”

Ryan has spent the last three seasons as a member of the CBS Sports team as an analyst.

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Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) passes the ball against the Buffalo Bills during the second half at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park, New York, on Jan. 2, 2022. (Rich Barnes/USA TODAY Sports)

“I want to thank the incredible team at CBS Sports. I loved my three years there and I am truly grateful for their support in pursuing this opportunity. The CBS Sports culture is amazing, and I have made teammates and friends for life,” Ryan said in a statement.

Ryan, who was drafted out of Boston College, played with the Falcons for 14 seasons and holds many franchise records, including passing yards (59,735), attempts (8,003), completions (5,242), passing touchdowns (367), passer rating (94.6), completion percentage (65.5) and 300-yard games (73).

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Ryan Canfield is a digital production assistant for Fox News Digital.

Sports

High school basketball: Friday’s boys’ and girls’ scores

Published

10 hours ago

January 10, 2026

Press Room

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL

FRIDAY’S RESULTS

BOYS

CITY SECTION

Dorsey 75, Northridge Academy 67

El Camino Real 60, Carson 40

Fairfax 80, North Hollywood 43

Harbor Teacher 43, Torres 33

LA Hamilton 47, Marquez 40

LA University 74, Franklin 52

Santee 71, Rise Kohyang 39

SOCES 74, Lincoln 73

South East 59, Locke 45

View Park 44, Orthopaedic 40

Westbrook 57, Maywood CES 56

Wilmington Banning 50, Verdugo Hills 37

WISH Academy 50, University Prep Value 47

SOUTHERN SECTION

ACE 57, Victor Valley Christian 45

Agoura 52, Newbury Park 48

Alhambra 57, Montebello 43

Aliso Niguel 39, Beckman 37

Anaheim 57, Garden Grove Santiago 42

Anaheim Canyon 75, Santa Ana Foothill 52

Animo Leadership 61, Ambassador 58

Arcadia 69, Muir 45

Arlington 73, Hemet 66

Arrowhead Christian 68, Linfield Christian 53

Arroyo 79, Pasadena Marshall 57

Ayala 67, Diamond Bar 63

Azusa 77, Duarte 76

Banning 77, Desert Mirage 30

Bassett 51, Pomona 18

Bell Gardens 69, San Gabriel 49

Beverly Hills 57, Culver City 48

Big Bear 98, AAE 49

Bishop Amat 91, Gardena Serra 49

Blair 95, South Pasadena 78

Bonita 68, Walnut 51

Brea Olinda 67, Garden Grove Pacifica 53

Burbank Burroughs 72, Glendale 64

Calabasas 81, Westlake 70

California 84, El Rancho 39

California Lutheran 66, Desert Christian Academy 65

Calvin Christian 63, Cornerstone Christian 28

Cathedral 73, Cantwell-Sacred Heart 69

Cerritos 60, Whitney 32

Chaminade 55, Loyola 48

Citrus Hill 80, Canyon Springs 55

Corona Centennial 89, Norco 21

Corona Santiago 70, Eastvale Roosevelt 63

Crescenta Valley 77, Burbank 64

Desert Hot Springs 69, Cathedral City 46

Downey 78, Firebuagh 38

Dunn 60, Grace 53

Edgewood 67, Workman 34

Edison 75, Newport Harbor 70

El Dorado 69, Sonora 60

El Toro 53, Mission Viejo 48

Excelsior Charter 79, Lucerne Valley 34

Foothill Tech 66, Cate 39

Fountain Valley 56, Huntington Beach 49

Gahr 54, Dominguez 52

Glendora 54, Claremont 33

Hacienda Heights Wilson 62, Charter Oak 52

Harvard-Westlake 78, Crespi 53

Indian Springs 64, Pacific 32

JSerra 80, Orange Lutheran 66

Keppel 79, Schurr 50

Laguna Beach 69, Irvine University 48

La Habra 69, Crean Lutheran 56

Lakeside 72, Heritage 53

Lakeview Leadership 69, PAL Academy 22

La Salle 63, Mary Star of the Sea 38

La Sierra 52, Jurupa Valley 51

La Serna 49, Santa Fe 47

Long Beach Cabrillo 59, Long Beach Jordan 53

Long Beach Poly 78, Compton 50

Long Beach Wilson 65, Lakewood 52

Los Alamitos 80, Marina 60

Maranatha 45, Heritage Christian 44

Mater Dei 95, Servite 76

Mira Costa 69, Peninsula 28

Moorpark 58, Camarillo 54

Murrieta Valley 70, Great Oak 67

North Torrance 47, West Torrance 42

Northview 45, West Covina 37

Oaks Christian 72, Thousand Oaks 65

Ontario Christian 79, Woodcrest Christian 58

Orange 60, Estancia 59

Oxford Academy 64, Artesia 62

Oxnard 60, Rio Mesa 50

Oxnard Pacifica 73, Dos Pueblos 70

Paloma Valley 65, Vista del Lago 42

Palos Verdes 53, Wiseburn-Da Vinci 51

Pasadena 86, Hoover 20

Perris 52, Valley View 51

Pilibos 69, Mesrobian 35

Pioneer 79, Glenn 41

Portola 69, Irvine 44

Ramona 87, Norte Vista 77

Rancho Christian 78, Liberty 39

Rancho Verde 76, ORange Vista 46

Rio Hondo Prep 51, Chadwick 50

Riverside King 62, Corona 53

Riverside North 44, Moreno Valley 41

Riverside Prep 65, CIMSA 52

Rosemead 38, South El Monte 33

Rowland 41, Covina 40

Rubidoux 56, Patriot 43

San Bernardino 94, Miller 45

San Marcos 73, Buena 35

San Marino 60, La Canada 53

Santa Ana Valley 40, Magnolia 33

Santa Barbara 64, Ventura 37

Santa Clara 48, St. Bonaventure 45

Santa Rosa Academy 81, United Christian Academy 40

Sequoyah 51, Hillcrest Christian 47

Sierra Canyon 78, Sherman Oaks Notre Dame 74

Sierra Vista 69, Garey 35

Silver Valley 53, Hesperia Christian 46

Simi Valley 93, Del Sol 42

Southlands Christian 50, Avalon 49

South Torrance 50, Torrance 46

St. Anthony 79, St. Bernard 71

St. Genevieve 67, Paraclete 41

St. John Bosco 74, Santa Margarita 73

St. Monica 78, St. Paul 60

Temecula Valley 79, Vista Murrieta 73

Temple City 66, Monrovia 49

Twentynine Palms 59, Yucca Valley 33

University Prep 59, Desert Christian 45

Valencia 84, Canyon Country Canyon 58

Vasquez 97, PACS 52

Village Christian 90, Cerritos Valley Christian 34

Warren 86, Paramount 57

Webb 75, Newport Christian 48

Western 68, Savanna 54

Westminster La Quinta 60. Rancho Alamitos 48

Woodbridge 66, St. Margaret’s 50

Yorba Linda 49, Sunny Hills 48

INTERSECTIONAL

Buckley 64, Taft 61

Rolling Hills Prep 72, Narbonne 42

GIRLS

CITY SECTION

Marquez 36, MSCP 31

Panorama 38, Fulton 7

South East 61, Huntington Park 36

SOUTHERN SECTION

AAE 46, Big Bear 31

Arcadia 69, Muir 31

Arroyo 26, Pasadena Marshall 19

Ayala 41, Diamond Bar 32

Banning 66, Desert Mirage 14

Bonita 41, Walnut 24

Brentwood 61, Crossroads 32

Buena Park 72, Santa Ana Calvary Chapel 20

Burbank Burroughs 58, Glendale 42

Camarillo 59, Moorpark 31

Capistrano Valley Christian 49, Samueli Academy 35

Cerritos 72, Whitney 58

Chaparral 61, Murrieta Mesa 60

CIMSA 42, Riverside Prep 24

Corona Centennial 96, Norco 8

Costa Mesa 60, Westminster 36

Crescenta Valley 77, Burbank 39

Desert Chapel 45, Joshua Springs Christian 15

Desert Christian 37, University Prep 26

Downey 53, Gahr 16

Duarte 61, Azusa 23

Edgewood 44, Workman 25

El Dorado 48, Crean Lutheran 30

El Modena 61, Santa Ana Foothill 27

El Rancho 38, California 31

Esperanza 47, Anaheim Canyon 34

Etiwanda 69, Villa Park 49

Fillmore 44, Santa Clara 19

Flintridge Prep 73, Pasadena Poly 37

Fullerton 51, Laguna Hills 35

Garden Grove 47, Ocean View 23

Glendora 61, Claremont 32

Godinez 43, Placentia Valencia 23

Hacienda Heights Wilson 75, Charter Oak 20

Hemet 33, Canyon Springs 20

Hesperia 54, Apple Valley 38

Hesperia Christian 56, Silver Valley 54

Holy Martyrs Armenian 49, AGBU 23

Indian Springs 62, Pacific 28

Irvine 45, Northwood 34

Keppel 53, Schurr 34

La Canada 54, San Marino 22

La Puente 32, Ganesha 22

La Serna 51, Santa Fe 40

La Sierra 30, Jurupa Valley 29

Lawndale 55, Hawthorne 9

Leuzinger 77, Compton Centennial 28

Liberty 46, Vista del Lago 27

Loara 44, Anaheim 39

Long Beach Jordan 72, Long Beach Cabrillo 5

Lucerne Valley 42, Excelsior Charter 38

Murrieta Valley 61, Great Oak 19

Newbury Park 55, Agoura 33

Nogales 63, Baldwin Park 42

North Torrance 47, West Torrance 35

Norwalk 49, Bellflower 40

Oak Hills 78, Burbank Burroughs 33

Oak Park 91, Royal 10

Oakwood 61, Burbank Providence 15

Ontario Christian 86, Lakewood St. Joseph 51

Palos Verdes 55, Wiseburn-Da Vnci 50

Pasadena 53, Hoover 43

Patriot 62, Rubidoux 9

Pioneer 55, Glenn 30

Ramona 62, Norte Vista 18

Riverside King 60, Corona 47

Riverside Poly 52, Hillcrest 51

Rowland 58, Covina 30

Sage Hill 73, Portola 45

San Bernardino 61, Miller 19

Santa Ana Valley 45, Western 38

Santa Clarita Christian 45, Faith Baptist 37

Santa Paula 73, Carpinteria 43

Saugus 79, Golden Valley 39

Savanna 44, Westminster La Quinta 21

Sierra Vista 60, Garey 38

St. Margaret’s 64, Laguna Beach 41

Southlands Christian 22, St. Lucy’s 19

South Torrance 49, Torrance 41

Temple City 53, Monrovia 34

Thousand Oaks 67, Oaks Christian 32

Twentynine Palms 62, Yucca Valley 20

Valencia 82, Canyon Country Canyon 55

Village Christian 68, Cerritos Valley Christian 56

Vista Murrieta 51, Temecula Valley 48

Warren 57, Mayfair 32

West Covina 32, Northview 25

Westlake 61, Calabasas 57

Woodbridge 50, Irvine University 16

Yorba Linda 42, Sunny Hills 32

INTERSECTIONAL

Archbishop Mitty 80, Fairmont Prep 45

Chatsworth 49, Northridge Academy 40

Newport Beach Pacifica Christian 67, North County San Marcos 53

Rosary Academy 53, King/Drew 44

West Ranch 82, Vaughn 11

Sports

Indiana crushes Oregon to advance to first championship game in program history, stunning sports world

Published

22 hours ago

January 10, 2026

Press Room

Indiana crushes Oregon to advance to first championship game in program history, stunning sports world

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The 2025 Indiana Hoosiers became the fifth team in modern college football history to go 15-0. Now they can become the first team of the modern era to ever go 16-0, and only the second of all-time, joining an 1894 Yale team that played with leather helmets.

With a merciless 56-22 thumping of Oregon in the Peach Bowl, the Hoosiers punched their ticket to their first national championship game appearance in program history.

Head coach Curt Cignetti has left the college football world breathless with a dramatic turnaround of the Hoosiers program, going from one of the losingest teams in the Big 10 to potentially the most dominant single-season of all time.

Elijah Sarratt #13 of the Indiana Hoosiers is tackled by Ify Obidegwu #7 of the Oregon Ducks during the first quarter in the 2025 College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on January 09, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

Many prominent sports figures took to social media to express their amazement of Indiana’s unprecedented dominance during and after their win over Oregon. Indiana Gov. Mike Braun also chimed in.

Indiana’s Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Fernando Mendoza threw five touchdown passes, improving his case to be the top pick in the upcoming NFL Draft.

Kaelon Black ran for two touchdowns to lead the Indiana running game.

INDIANA WINS FIRST OUTRIGHT BIG 10 FOOTBALL TITLE SINCE 1945 AFTER OHIO STATE FLUBS SHORT FIELD GOAL TRY

Fernando Mendoza #15 of the Indiana Hoosiers is tackled by Aaron Flowers #21 of the Oregon Ducks during the second quarter in the 2025 College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on January 09, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

Oregon (13-2, No. 5 CFP) was doomed by the three first-half turnovers while also being short-handed by the absence of two of their top running backs.

Indiana’s defense didn’t wait long to make an impact. On Oregon’s first snap, cornerback D’Angelo Ponds intercepted Moore’s pass intended for Malik Benson and returned the pick 25 yards for a touchdown. Only 11 seconds into the game, the Hoosiers and their defense already had made a statement this would be a long night for Moore and the Oregon offense.

Moore’s 19-yard scoring pass to tight end Jamari Johnson tied the game. The remainder of the half belonged to Indiana and its big-play defense.

After Mendoza’s 8-yard touchdown pass to Omar Cooper Jr. gave the Hoosiers the lead for good at 14-7, Indiana’s defense forced a turnover when Moore fumbled and Indiana recovered at the Oregon 3, setting up Black’s scoring run.

Moore lost a second fumble later in the second quarter when hit by Daniel Ndukwe and Mario Landino recovered at the Oregon 21. Mendoza’s first scoring pass to Sarratt gave the Hoosiers’ the 35-7 lead.

Indiana extended its lead to 42-7 on Mendoza’s 13-yard scoring pass to E.J. Williams Jr.

Oregon finally answered. A 70-yard run by Hill set up a 2-yard scoring run by Harris.

The Hoosiers led 35-7 at halftime as the Ducks were held to nine rushing yards on 17 carries. Noah Whittington, who leads Oregon with 829 rushing yards, was held out with an undisclosed injury after Jordon Davison, who had rushed for 667 yards and 15 touchdowns, already was listed as out with a collarbone injury.

Backup running backs, including Jay Harris and Dierre Hill Jr, provided too little help for quarterback Dante Moore. Moore’s task against Indiana’s stifling defense would have been daunting even with all his weapons.

Following their undefeated regular season, the Hoosiers have only gained momentum in the CFP. Indiana overwhelmed Alabama 38-3 in the Rose Bowl quarterfinal as Mendoza passed for 192 yards and three touchdowns.

Now, the Hoosiers will prepare to face Miami on Jan. 19 in the national championship game at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens. Miami beat Mississippi 31-27 in the Fiesta Bowl semifinal on Thursday night.

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Roman Hemby #1 of the Indiana Hoosiers runs out of bounds before the endzone against the Oregon Ducks during the second quarter in the 2025 College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on January 09, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)

Indiana will try to give the Big Ten its third straight national title, following Ohio State and Michigan the last two seasons. Few teams from any conference can compare with the Hoosiers’ season-long demonstration of balanced strong play.

The country will be watching to see if this unprecedented team can finish the job and really punch their ticket into the history books.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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Jackson Thompson is a sports reporter for Fox News Digital covering critical political and cultural issues in sports, with an investigative lens. Jackson’s reporting has been cited in federal government actions related to the enforcement of Title IX, and in legacy media outlets including The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, The Philadelphia Inquirer, The Associated Press and ESPN.com.