2024 NFL Free-Agency Guide, Top Needs for Every Team Before Tampering Window Opens

2024 NFL Free-Agency Guide, Top Needs for Every Team Before Tampering Window Opens0 of 32

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The 2024 edition of NFL free agency is nearly here. While the market won’t officially open until 4 p.m. ET on Wednesday, the legal contact period will begin at noon ET on Monday.

Contracts cannot be executed during the “tampering” period, but agreements can and will be struck.

We spent all season chronicling each team’s biggest weaknesses on a weekly basis. This offseason, B/R’s Alex Ballentine (AFC) and Kris Knox (NFC) will provide updated analysis for all of the ways each team can improve ahead of the 2024 campaign.

Here, you’ll find a full free-agency overview for every franchise. With the new league year on the doorstep, we’ll take a final look at each team’s top impending free agents, needs, trade assets and offseason targets. We’ll also identify each team’s dream free agent based on factors such as roster makeup, projected cap space, scheme fit and any relevant recent buzz.

Arizona Cardinals1 of 32

Cardinals general manager Monti OssenfortChristian Petersen/Getty Images

Updated Salary-Cap Space: $51.8 million

Top Pending Free Agents: IOL Trystan Colon, WR Marquise Brown, CB Antonio Hamilton Sr., LB Ezekiel Turner, DT Carlos Watkins

Potential Trade Assets: S Budda Baker, OT D.J. Humphries, Fourth Overall Pick

Potential Trade Targets: DE Josh Sweat, CB L’Jarius Sneed, WR Keenan Allen

Biggest Positions of Need: Cornerback, Defensive Line, Wide Receiver

Potential Signing 1: WR Calvin Ridley

The Arizona Cardinals appear comfortable moving forward with quarterback Kyler Murray. Improving his supporting cast should, therefore, be a top offseason priority.

Arizona may target a top receiver prospect like Marvin Harrison Jr. or Malik Nabers with the fourth overall pick. With Marquise Brown heading to free agency, though, the Cardinals should consider bolstering the receiver position long before draft weekend,

Even if the Cardinals retain Brown, adding a high-end No. 2 receiver like Calvin Ridley would be logical. In his first season with the Jacksonville Jaguars, Ridley caught 76 passes for 1,016 yards and eight touchdowns. He’s a very capable perimeter target who would complement Murray’s ability to buy time and push the ball downfield.

Strengthening the receiver position early would give Arizona added flexibility with its top pick—one that could be a valuable trade asset if quarterbacks fly off the board early.

Potential Signing 2: DT D.J. Reader

Defensively, the Cardinals need to address a run defense that ranked dead-last in yards allowed last season. While Arizona could make a run at a top defensive tackle like Chris Jones or Christian Watkins, D.J. Reader of the Cincinnati Bengals might be a more sensible option.

Reader will turn 30 in July and is coming off a December quad injury that required surgery. This could put him in a free-agent price range that wouldn’t represent an overpay.

Reader won’t exactly come cheaply, but he could be a relative bargain given his age and recent injury history. And when healthy, he’s one of the most dependable all-around interior defenders in the league. He’s a force against the run and can help boost the pass rush by collapsing the pocket from inside.

Potential Dream Signing: CB Kyle Fuller

The NFL is a passing league, and the Cardinals simply aren’t well-equipped to deal with that fact. Arizona ranked 30th in net yards allowed per pass attempt last season, and they don’t have a legitimate shutdown corner.

In a division that features wideouts Cooper Kupp, Puka Nacua, Deebo Samuel and DK Metcalf, that’s a problem.

Signing Washington Commanders cornerback Kyle Fuller would immediately improve Arizona’s secondary. Fuller had a down year, along with the rest of Washington’s defense, in 2023, but he’s still a reliable and experienced starting perimeter corner.

With both Jaylon Johnson and L’Jarius Sneed receiving the franchise tag, Fuller becomes the top cornerback under age 30 headed to market.

For a defensive head coach like Jonathan Gannon, Fuller would be a home run addition.

Overview

The Cardinals have a lot of needs to address, but the good news is that they’re facing a favorable cap situation. Arizona could better that situation by parting with inconsistent and injured (ACL) offensive tackle D.J. Humphries.

Releasing Humphries with a post-June 1 designation would save $16 million in cap space.

Arizona is poised to be a major player in the opening stages of free agency, and it won’t be a surprise to see general manager Monti Ossenfort target some of the biggest names on the market.

Much of the focus should be on defense, where the Cardinals need a serious influx of talent, and cornerback is a massive need. If Arizona can’t land a top pass-defender like Fuller, expect players like Rock Ya-Sin and Sean Murphy-Bunting to be valued as potential bargain alternatives.

Atlanta Falcons2 of 32

Falcons head coach Raheem MorrisKevin C. Cox/Getty Images

Updated Salary-Cap Space: $41.4 million

Top Pending Free Agents: DE Calais Campbell, EDGE Bud Dupree, WR Mack Hollins, CB Jeff Okudah, FB Keith Smith

Potential Trade Assets: QB Desmond Ridder, S Richie Grant, RB Avery Williams

Potential Trade Targets: QB Justin Fields, EDGE Khalil Mack, Top-Three Draft Pick

Biggest Positions of Need: Quarterback, EDGE, Wide Receiver

Potential Signing 1: WR Marquise Brown

Regardless of how the Atlanta Falcons address their quarterback situation, they could use another dependable pass-catcher. Wideout Drake London and tight end Kyle Pitts have both showcased potential, but adding another top-tier receiver would give the Falcons a complete receiving corps—one that can support their signal-caller.

With Tee Higgins and Michael Pittman Jr. getting the franchise tag—plus Mike Evans getting an extension—Cardinals wideout Marquise Brown becomes one of the top receivers available.

While Brown isn’t a particularly well-rounded receiver, he can still stretch the field and create big plays after the catch with his speed. He’d be a solid complement to London and Pitts in the passing game.

Potential Signing 2: Edge Bryce Huff

Defensively, the Falcons were fairly solid in 2023, finishing the year ranked 11th overall. They also did a decent job of getting after opposing quarterbacks, logging 42 sacks.

However, Atlanta could still use another rotational pass-rusher, especially with Calais Campbell and Bud Dupree headed to free agency. Bryce Huff of the New York Jets might not be a household name, but he’d be a big asset for the Falcons as a passing-down specialist.

Last season, Huff recorded 10 sacks and 33 quarterback pressures while playing only 42 percent of the defensive snaps.

Potential Dream Signing: QB Kirk Cousins

New head coach Raheem Morris has inherited a team that is talented at many positions, but not at quarterback. The tandem of Desmond Ridder and Taylor Heinicke underwhelmed in 2023, and if the Falcons plan to push for the postseason, they need to upgrade the position significantly.

While drafting a quarterback highly in April or trading for Justin Fields are options, the Falcons appear most interested in Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins.

“Everybody I’ve talked to—agents, other coaches and scouts, guys around the league—that’s the feeling that they are saying,” Zach Klein of WBS in Atlanta said on Dukes and Bell (h/t Matt Ehalt of the New York Post). “What they are hearing is that the Falcons will put all their attention on Kirk Cousins moving forward.”

Cousins is 35 and coming off a torn Achilles, but the four-time Pro Bowler would provide a big upgrade under center and potentially put Atlanta in the thick of the NFC race.

Overview

Atlanta is in a pretty good position when it comes to initial cap space. The Falcons have enough financial flexibility to be very active when free agency opens, and they have the cash to throw at a top-tier free agent like Cousins.

And quarterback must be Atlanta’s primary focus in 2024. If Cousins or Fields cannot be had, the Falcons will likely turn their attention to the draft. In that scenario, it would still make sense to land a potential bargain free agent like Jacoby Brissett or Gardner Minshew for insurance purposes.

The Falcons can’t really bank on Ridder or Heinicke successfully mentoring a rookie after watching them flounder on the field in 2023.

From there, the Falcons should continue reloading their defense while finding another playmaker or two to help support their next franchise signal-caller.

Baltimore Ravens3 of 32

Ravens executive vice president & general manager Eric DeCostaNick Cammett/Diamond Images via Getty Images

Updated Salary-Cap Space: $14.7 million

Top Pending Free Agents: LB Patrick Queen, RB Gus Edwards, EDGE Jadeveon Clowney, OG Kevin Zeitler, S Geno Stone

Potential Trade Assets: WR Rashod Bateman, OT Morgan Moses, EDGE Tyus Bowser

Potential Trade Targets: WR Tyler Lockett, EDGE Brian Burns, DT DeForest Buckner

Biggest Positions of Need: Wide Receiver, Interior Defender, Offensive Tackle

Potential Signing 1: RB Derrick Henry

Todd Monken taking over the role of offensive coordinator did not change the fact that the Ravens are one of the best running teams in the league. However, Gus Edwards is hitting free agency after rushing for 13 touchdowns, and Derrick Henry could be looking to go to a contender.

Potential Signing 2: WR Michael Thomas

The Ravens need help at receiver but could be shopping on a budget at the position. That makes Michael Thomas an ideal target. Given his injuries and lack of recent production, he’ll probably be forced to take a one-year team-friendly contract. However, when he’s healthy and at his best, he can still be a game-changer.

Potential Dream Signing: Edge Bryce Huff

The Ravens had an electric defense last season, but their leading edge-rushers were Jadeveon Clowney and Kyle Van Noy. Now both players are set to hit free agency and it’s still unclear what the Ravens have in David Ojabo and Odafe Oweh.

Bryce Huff is one of the best pure pass-rushers in the free-agent class. He has one of the fastest first steps in the league, and he exploded with 10 sacks and 60 total pressures last season. Adding him to the Ravens defense would soften the blow of losing defensive coordinator Mike MacDonald, who is now the Seahawks head coach.

Overview

Bringing on Monken and getting a healthy Lamar Jackson for a full season reminded everyone of how dangerous the Ravens can be. They came up short in the AFC Championship Game, but a 13-4 season and a playoff win are certainly things to build on.

The Ravens main focus is likely going to be keeping some of their in-house talent. They have some key players set to hit free agency, and they don’t have a huge budget to work with. They’ll likely have to do some more restructures and potentially make some cuts to create a little more wiggle room.

Don’t expect many big signings, but general manager Eric DeCosta has had some success in the third and fourth waves of free agency before.

Buffalo Bills4 of 32

Bills general manager Brandon BeaneMichael Hickey/Getty Images

Updated Salary-Cap Space: minus-$10.5 million

Top Pending Free Agents: WR Gabe Davis, S Micah Hyde, EDGE Leonard Floyd, EDGE A.J. Epenesa, CB Dane Jackson

Potential Trade Assets: EDGE Von Miller, WR Stefon Diggs, TE Dawson Knox

Potential Trade Targets: Day 2 Draft Picks, EDGE Azeez Ojulari, S Richie Grant

Biggest Positions of Need: EDGE, Cornerback, Safety

Potential Signing 1: WR Kendrick Bourne, New England Patriots

Assuming the Bills and Stefon Diggs will keep their relationship alive, wide receiver isn’t the team’s biggest need. Losing Gabe Davis hurts, but Khalil Shakir showed a lot of upside last season, and the draft should bring another exciting target. However, targeting a veteran like 28-year-old Kendrick Bourne could really round out the room.

Bourne is coming off an ACL tear and has never been a dominant receiver, so he should have an affordable price tag while bringing some experience and production to the table.

Potential Signing 2: DT A’Shawn Robinson, Detroit Lions

The Bills are set to lose a ton of their interior talent along the defensive line. DaQuan Jones, Poona Ford, Linval Joseph and Jordan Phillips are all set to hit free agency. They don’t have enough money to bring them all back so they might be prioritizing veterans who would want to play for a contender on a cheap contract.

A’Shawn Robinson would be worth a call. He’s still a stout run defender even if he doesn’t offer much pass-rush help.

Potential Dream Signing: S Kamren Curl, Washington Commanders

The Bills just don’t have the flexibility to add a top-tier free agent at one of the premium positions, but the safety market could provide the opportunity to add a difference-maker. It wouldn’t be easy to carve out the cap space, but signing Kamren Curl would guarantee the Bills get to continue their tradition of having great safety play.

Buffalo has enjoyed the combination of Micah Hyde and Jordan Poyer on the back end of the defense for years, but that era is coming to a close. Hyde will be a free agent this offseason and Poyer (32) was released.

Curl is the kind of versatile safety who can line up anywhere, and he’s shined on a Commanders defense that hasn’t always been good. As a 2020 seventh-rounder who has been on some bad Washington teams, he isn’t as high-profile as some of the other safeties on the market, but he could be a high-impact player in Buffalo.

Overview

The Buffalo Bills face one of the most grim salary-cap situations in the league heading into free agency. There’s a reason some have said their current Super Bowl window is closing. They have some talented players set to hit the market, and they will have a hard time bringing a lot of them back, much less adding a lot of external talent.

This offseason is going to be about making some improvements on the margins and getting the cap situation in check so they can continue being a threat in the AFC. They’ve already gutted a lot of their roster with the release of Tre’Davious White, Jordan Poyer and Mitch Morse.

There might be a few post-first-wave signings that can help the Bills remain dangerous, but this is likely to be a rather muted offseason in Buffalo.

Carolina Panthers5 of 32

Panthers general manager Dan MorganDavid Jensen/Getty Images

Updated Salary-Cap Space: $13.1 million

Top Pending Free Agents: WR DJ Chark Jr., LB Yetur Gross-Matos, LB Frankie Luvu, DL DeShawn Williams, CB C.J. Henderson

Potential Trade Assets: EDGE Brian Burns (tag and trade), WR Terrace Marshall Jr., C Bradley Bozeman

Potential Trade Targets: WR Tyler Lockett, WR Mike Williams, First-Round Draft Pick

Biggest Positions of Need: Wide Receiver, EDGE, Tight End

Potential Signing 1: Edge Shaquil Barrett

While the Carolina Panthers’ primary goal this offseason must be to improve Bryce Young’s supporting cast, the team cannot simply ignore a defense that ranked 29th in points allowed last season.

Extending Brian Burns’ deal should be a priority, but the Panthers can stand to add another pass-rusher or two after recording just 27 sacks as a team last season. Shaquil Barrett, who was recently released by the rival Buccaneers, would be a logical target.

Barrett’s production wasn’t high last season, as he finished with 4.5 sacks and 19 quarterback pressures. However, he’s still a savvy veteran with Super Bowl experience who could help guide a Panthers team that is learning how to win. He should also be plenty familiar with head coach Dave Canales, who last served as Tampa’s offensive coordinator.

Potential Signing 2: TE Gerald Everett

Canales is expected to get more out of Young after helping revive the careers of both Baker Mayfield and Geno Smith over the last two seasons. However, it would behoove the Panthers to give their young quarterback a reliable outlet target on whom to lean.

Tight end Gerald Everett fits the bill perfectly. He emerged as a security blanket for Justin Herbert with the Los Angeles Chargers, and he could do the same for Young in Carolina.

Everett finished the 23 season with 51 catches for 411 yards and three touchdowns, and nearly half of his receptions (25) went for first downs.

Potential Dream Signing: WR Marquise Brown

The Panthers desperately need a true No. 1 receiver, but unfortunately, there isn’t one set to be available on the 2024 free-agent market.

Marquise Brown has failed to fill that No. 1 role with both the Ravens and Cardinals. However, he does have the speed to get open, on everything from go routes to crossers and in-cuts. In 2021, Brown caught 91 passes for 1,008 yards and six touchdowns with the Ravens.

A developing quarterback like Young can find value in a receiver who can create separation, and Brown fits the bill.

One of Young’s best traits at Alabama was his ability to buy time in the pocket and generate big plays. However, the Panthers lacked the playmakers to take advantage of that ability during his rookie season. Adding Brown would change that.

Overview

While the Panthers aren’t exactly cap-strapped, they aren’t oozing salary space like some other rebuilding teams—specifically, the Washington Commanders and New England Patriots.

Yet, we’re still likely to see Carolina take an aggressive approach in the early stages of free agency. The Panthers need players who can contribute right away, and they don’t have a 2024 first-round pick because of last year’s trade to acquire Young.

Adding skill players who can help elevate Young is a must, and the Panthers need several of them. Top receivers like Brown should be high on the wish list, but Carolina should consider potential budget options like Marquez Valdes-Scantling and Donovan Peoples-Jones as well. A volume approach is warranted.

And while the Panthers had a solid defensive foundation in 2023 (fourth in yards allowed), they need more legitimate difference-makers on that side of the ball too.

Chicago Bears6 of 32

Bears general manager Ryan PolesTodd Rosenberg/Getty Images

Updated Salary-Cap Space: $64 million

Top Pending Free Agents: DT Justin Jones, WR Darnell Mooney, EDGE Yannick Ngakoue, C Lucas Patrick, WR Equanimeous St. Brown

Potential Trade Assets: No. 1 Overall Pick, QB Justin Fields, S Eddie Jackson

Potential Trade Targets: WR Tyler Lockett, WR Amari Cooper, CB Donte Jackson

Biggest Positions of Need: Wide Receiver, Cornerback, Center

Potential Signing 1: QB Drew Lock

It’s looking increasingly likely that the Chicago Bears will move on from quarterback Justin Fields this offseason and use the No. 1 overall pick on USC’s Caleb Williams. It’s a logical approach because A.) Williams is viewed as an elite prospect and B.) it would reset the clock at the position, giving Chicago a QB on a rookie contract.

If the Bears do roll with a rookie signal-caller in 2024, it would make sense to have a veteran mentor to help guide him. With former Seattle Seahawks offensive coordinator Shane Waldron taking the same job with the Bears, Drew Lock becomes a logical target.

Lock spent two years under Waldron in Seattle, so he knows the offense. And while the 27-year-old isn’t exactly a grizzled veteran, he has 23 starts on his resume and knows the potential pitfalls of being a highly drafted quarterback (2019, second round).

Potential Signing 2: C Andre James

Chicago will likely be in the center market this offseason. Lucas Patrick is scheduled to be a free agent, and he’s recovering from foot surgery that he underwent in January.

Signing Las Vegas Raiders center Andre James to replace Patrick would be a slam dunk move for the Bears. The 26-year-old has developed into one of the league’s most dependable starters over the past couple of seasons, and he’s young enough to continue growing alongside Chicago’s next quarterback.

After signing Nate Davis and drafting Darnell Wright, the Bears saw improved O-line play in 2023. James is a quality starter who could help Chicago’s line continue trending in the right direction.

Potential Dream Signing: WR Gabe Davis

The Bears got their No. 1 receiver when they acquired D.J. Moore in the Young trade. However, they must continue bolstering their skill group to help ensure their young quarterback can find early success.

Darnell Mooney is slated to be a free agent, and even if the Bears re-sign him, it would still be logical to improve the receiver room.

Bills receiver Gabe Davis filled that No. 2 role behind Stefon Diggs over the past few seasons, and he could do the same in Chicago. While consistency isn’t Davis’ strong suit, he does possess legitimate playmaking ability.

At only 24 years old, Davis is another young player who would mesh well with Chicago’s long-term plans.

Overview

Much of Chicago’s 2024 plan will hinge on its quarterback decision. Yet, whether it’s Fields or Williams under center in Week 1, the Bears must improve an offensive group that showed occasional flashes in 2023 but wasn’t consistently great.

A young receiver like Davis would make the most sense, but Chicago should also consider potential budget options like Curtis Samuel and Josh Reynolds as well.

Continuing to build the offensive line and adding another playmaker or two to a defense that took major strides in the second half of last season would also be advisable.

The Bears and general manager Ryan Poles have a lot of work ahead of them. The good news is that Chicago has a very favorable cap situation and can afford to be a free-agency player early and throughout the offseason.

Cincinnati Bengals7 of 32

Bengals Director of Player Personnel Duke TobinZach Bolinger/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Updated Salary-Cap Space: $50.3 million

Top Pending Free Agents: OT Jonah Williams, WR Tyler Boyd, CB Chidobe Awuzie, DT D.J. Reader, TE Drew Sample

Potential Trade Assets: WR Tee Higgins, CB Mike Hilton, 18th Overall Pick

Potential Trade Targets: Draft Picks, DT DeForest Buckner, OT Joe Noteboom

Biggest Positions of Need: Interior Defender, Offensive Tackle, Tight End

Potential Signing 1: OL Mike Onwenu

The Cincinnati Bengals have needed to continually invest in the offensive line since drafting Joe Burrow No. 1 overall in 2020. That process isn’t going to end now. Burrow has a tendency to hold on to the ball, and that’s going to necessitate a good offensive line for a long time.

Onwenu is the perfect free-agent solution for them because of his inside-out versatility. He has proved he can handle right tackle duties, but he might be an even better guard. The Bengals happen to need a right tackle next season, but if they draft and develop a player, then Onwenu could eventually kick back inside.

Potential Signing 2: CB Kendall Fuller

Chidobe Awuzie took a step back in 2023, but he was still playing an important role for the Bengals. Cincinnati is in the middle of a youth movement in its secondary, but having at least one veteran starting in the back half could be beneficial. Kendall Fuller is coming off a strong year and has the versatility to play in the slot if necessary.

Potential Dream Signing: DT Christian Wilkins

This would be a tremendous convergence of need, availability and talent. Christian Wilkins has always been a top-tier run defender but he added some pass rushing to his game this past season. He more than doubled his pressure total from 2022 with 62 and nine sacks while maintaining his strength against the run.

D.J. Reader might be the Bengals’ most significant free agent. He has been a pivotal cog in the defensive turnaround in Cincinnati since he was signed in 2020; however, his level of play slipped a bit last season. The Bengals were not strong against the run, and Reader will be 30 in July.

Wilkins isn’t the exact same player, but he’s a little younger at 28 and would still be an elite anchor on the inside.

Overview

The Bengals made their first big decision of the offseason by utilizing the franchise tag on wide receiver Tee Higgins. However, Dan Graziano of ESPN reported that there’s a belief around the league they made that decision so early so they could trade him.

That wouldn’t be a surprising move. With Ja’Marr Chase eligible to sign an extension, it would be hard for the Bengals to keep both of their young receivers in the long term.

What they decide to do with Higgins will have a big impact on their draft and free-agency plans. If they do trade him, they will have even more cap space to work with. If they decide they are only keeping him for one more season, then receiver becomes a much bigger need in free agency and the draft.

Ultimately, the Bengals have the financial flexibility to do whatever they want and still get aggressive with some short-term deals.

Cleveland Browns8 of 32

Browns general manager Andrew BerryJustin Casterline/Getty Images

Updated Salary-Cap Space: $12.8 million

Top Pending Free Agents: EDGE Za’Darius Smith, LB Sione Takitaki, LB Anthony Walker Jr., DT Jordan Elliott, QB Joe Flacco

Potential Trade Assets: WR Amari Cooper, RB Nick Chubb, OT Jack Conklin

Potential Trade Targets: WR Brandin Cooks, WR Jerry Jeudy, Draft Picks

Biggest Positions of Need: Wide Receiver, Interior Defensive Line, Edge-Rusher

Potential Signing 1: LB Denzel Perryman

Off-ball linebacker isn’t a premium position, but the Browns are going to need to find some answers there. Both Sione Takitaki and Anthony Walker Jr. are impending free agents. Denzel Perryman is on the wrong side of 30, but he’s still a good gap-filling linebacker who would provide a nice floor at the position.

Potential Signing 2: EDGE A.J. Epenesa

The ideal situation would be for the Browns to bring back Za’Darius Smith. Zac Jackson of The Athletic reported that Cleveland would like to bring back Smith but won’t rush its negotiations with him. After he showed he still has some juice left at 31 years old, other teams might be willing to prioritize him a bit more.

A.J. Epenesa could be a reasonable backup plan. He has posted 6.5 sacks in each of the last two seasons and has solid draft pedigree as a 2020 second-round pick.

Potential Dream Signing: WR Marquise Brown

The Browns’ passing attack was obviously damaged by quarterback Deshaun Watson’s injuries, but the receiving corps wasn’t all that deep. They compounded the lack of depth by dealing Donovan Peoples-Jones ahead of the trade deadline. While Cedric Tillman and Elijah Moore have potential to take on even bigger roles next season, it would also help to bring in a real No. 2 option.

Marquise Brown has proved he can’t be a team’s top option. However, he still has the deep speed and ball-tracking ability to be a field-stretching No. 2 option. He’s reminiscent of Brandin Cooks, who Watson had great chemistry with in Houston.

Carving out the money to make a deal work might be difficult, but Brown would be a big addition.

Overview

The Browns are going to be walking a bit of a financial tightrope this offseason. The impact of the Watson contract is starting to settle in. While they can continue to restructure it to free up current cap space, they will need to be intentional with how they spend their money moving forward.

The main concern should be the defensive line. They are set to lose several key players from the defensive front that was dominant last season. In addition to Smith and Elliott, Shelby Harris and Maurice Hurst could also be leaving.

That’s not even getting to the offensive side of the ball where the Browns struggled last season. They will mostly have to hope that Watson can return to form for improvement there.

Nick Chubb’s contract situation will be a key storyline to watch. He’s due to cost $15.8 million against the salary cap but is coming off a nasty knee injury that ended his season two games into the campaign. The Browns could save $11.8 million in cap space by releasing him, but that means getting rid of a beloved player who has performed well.

Dallas Cowboys9 of 32

Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthyCooper Neill/Getty Images

Updated Salary-Cap Space: $9 million

Top Pending Free Agents: C Tyler Biadasz, CB Stephon Gilmore, S Jayron Kearse, RB Tony Pollard, OT Tyron Smith

Potential Trade Assets: WR Brandin Cooks, WR Michael Gallup, TE Luke Schoonmaker

Potential Trade Targets: OT James Hudson, DT Kenny Clark, First-Round Pick

Biggest Positions of Need: Offensive Tackle, Center, Defensive Tackle

Potential Signing 1: OT Donovan Smith

According to NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport, the Dallas Cowboys are expected to move on from Tyron Smith in free agency. Doing so will leave a big hole at left tackle, one that could hypothetically be filled by Tyler Smith, who played left tackle as a rookie in 2022.

However, moving the young Smith would then create a void at guard, and there’s a strong chance that guards will be in demand this offseason. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the market’s top guards could command “$16 million or more” annually.

Keeping Tyler Smith at left guard might be the smart move for Dallas, and signing Donovan Smith would at least provide a stopgap at left tackle. Smith hasn’t been great the past couple of seasons, but he’s an experienced starter who just helped the Kansas City Chiefs win a Super Bowl.

Potential Signing 2: C Andre James

Dallas could also be in the center market this offseason, as Tyler Biadasz is slated to be a free agent. Re-signing Biadasz would be logical, but Dallas could also turn its attention to an external free agent such as Andre James.

James has emerged as a quality center for the Las Vegas Raiders over the past couple of seasons and has helped Las Vegas forge one of the NFL’s more dependable offensive lines.

The Cowboys used to be able to view the offensive line as a team strength, but that hasn’t been the case in recent years, largely due to injuries. If Dallas is all-in on the 2024 season, bolstering the offensive line should be near the top of the to-do list.

Potential Dream Signing: DT Christian Wilkins

Defensively, the Cowboys need to improve a run defense that ranked 15th in yards allowed per carry in 2023. Run defense wasn’t a constant problem, but against playoff-caliber teams—and more importantly, in the playoffs—it was a liability.

Expect Dallas to show some level of interest in free-agent linebackers like Devin White and Anthony Walker Jr. However, a stout defensive front begins up front, and defensive tackle Christian Wilkins would be a dream addition to the Dallas D.

Wilkins took a slight step back as a run defender in 2023 but was fantastic as an interior pass-rusher (nine sacks, 30 QB pressures). In the four years before playing under Vic Fangio, Wilkins was an elite run defender.

In 2022 alone, the 28-year-old recorded 98 total tackles, 59 solo stops and 16 tackles for loss. With Wilkins in the middle and Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence on the edge, Dallas’ front would be intimidating.

Overview

If the Cowboys are going to be active in free agency, they’ll need to generate more cap space. That could be done by releasing wide receiver Michael Gallup, as doing so with a post-June 1 designation would clear $9.5 million in cap space.

However, franchise owner Jerry Jones has expressed that no decision has yet been made regarding Gallup. Trading Brandin Cooks before March 18 would save another $4 million in cap room.

Dallas could also create cap space with new contracts for quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb—both of whom will be free agents in 2025.

Whatever the Cowboys do or don’t do to better their cap situation, improving the O-line and adding talent to the defensive front seven have to be priorities in both free agency and the draft. The latter may require targeting potential bargain defensive tackles like Teair Tart and Maurice Hurst instead of a star like Wilkins.

And if Dallas parts with receivers to make room, it will generate yet another position of need.

Denver Broncos10 of 32

Sean PaytonStacy Revere/Getty Images

Updated Salary-Cap Space: $15.3 million

Top Pending Free Agents: LB Josey Jewell, C Lloyd Cushenberry, TE Adam Trautman, CB Fabian Moreau, DT Mike Purcell

Potential Trade Assets: WR Jerry Jeudy, WR Courtland Sutton, No. 12 overall pick

Potential Trade Targets: Draft Picks, CB Jaycee Horn, EDGE Azeez Ojulari

Biggest Positions of Need: Quarterback, Cornerback, Edge-Rusher

Potential Signing 1: EDGE Leonard Floyd

The Broncos aren’t going to have the kind of cash on hand to go after the Bryce Huffs or even Jonathan Greenards of the free-agent class. Both would be nice long-term pieces for the defense but will probably be too pricey. Leonard Floyd, on the other hand, had 10.5 sacks this past season but is 31 and played on a one-year, $4.4 million contract in 2023.

Potential Signing 2: QB Jameis Winston

The Broncos are between a rock and a hard place with their quarterback situation. Moving up in the draft from No. 12 to take a quarterback could be costly, and it’s hard to envision them just giving the starting job to Jarrett Stidham uncontested.

Jameis Winston has experience with Sean Payton from their two years of shared time in New Orleans. The former Pro Bowler hasn’t been a starter since 2019, but he would still be the most accomplished player in their quarterback room.

Potential Dream Signing: CB Steven Nelson

Jaylon Johnson and L’Jarius Sneed both got the franchise tag, so the cornerback group just got a lot thinner. However, there are still a few veteran cornerbacks who might be willing to play on a short-term contract. Given the Broncos’ cap restraints and overall rebuilding status, that’s probably the best-case scenario.

The Broncos have to find a cornerback who can start opposite Patrick Surtain II. Fabian Moreau stepped into that role at times last season, but he’s also set to be a free agent. Steven Nelson has played for four teams in six years, but he’s been solid everywhere he’s been.

At this point, bringing him in would be a huge win for Denver.

Overview

The Broncos made the first big move of the offseason when they announced they would be releasing Russell Wilson at the beginning of the league year. Cutting Wilson is going to incur around $85 million in dead-cap charges over the next two seasons, but their official statement specifically mentioned their ability to improve the team this offseason.

“As we move forward, we are focused on building the strongest team possible for the 2024 season and beyond. We are excited to improve this offseason and will have the flexibility to get better through the draft and free agency.”

Ditching Wilson might free up money down the road, but it’s still going to be hard to get too aggressive this offseason. This should be a transition offseason in which the Broncos do what they can to maximize their cap dollars while positioning themselves for the 2025 offseason.

Detroit Lions11 of 32

Lions general manager Brad HolmesMichael Hickey/Getty Images

Updated Salary-Cap Space: $54.3 million

Top Pending Free Agents: DB C.J. Gardner-Johnson, G Graham Glasgow, G Halapoulivaati Vaitai, G Jonah Jackson, WR Josh Reynolds

Potential Trade Assets: DT Levi Onwuzurike, TE James Mitchell, First-Round Pick

Potential Trade Targets: CB L’Jarius Sneed, EDGE Haason Reddick, First-Round Pick

Biggest Positions of Need: Cornerback, EDGE, Guard

Potential Signing 1: G Robert Hunt

The Detroit Lions had few holes on offense in 2023, but that could change in the coming days. Interior linemen Graham Glasgow, Jonah Jackson and Halapoulivaati Vaitai are all set to hit the market.

Naturally, re-signing Jackson and Vaitai, both starters when healthy, would be sensible. If Detroit can’t retain both players, though, Miami Dolphins guard Kevin Dotson would make plenty of sense.

Hunt is a (6’6″, 330 lbs) and powerful run blocker who can contribute at right tackle if needed. He’d be an asset blocking for David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs in Detroit.

Potential Signing 2: Edge Bryce Huff

Defensively, the Lions could use an influx of talent. Detroit did a great job of building a reliable run defense last offseason, but it still ranked 27th against the pass and 23rd in points allowed.

Up front, the Lions could benefit from another edge-rusher to complement Aidan Hutchinson. There’s a bevy of big names scheduled to be available, but the Lions might not want to shell out for a top sack artist like Danielle Hunter or Josh Allen.

New York Jets pass-rusher Bryce Huff, however, could be the perfect second-tier target for Detroit. As a dedicated pass-rusher, he was very effective in 2023, finishing with 10 sacks and 33 quarterback pressures while playing 42 percent of the defensive snaps.

In Detroit, Huff could be utilized as a passing-down specialist without impacting the defense’s chemistry on rushing downs.

Potential Dream Signing: CB Stephon Gilmore

The Lions need cornerback help, and Stephon Gilmore is the most proven one on the market.

Detroit could make a play for L’Jarius Sneed, who might be available in a trade, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. However, the Lions do have the cap space needed to make a serious run at the top veterans in free agency.

Gilmore will turn 34 in September, but he’s still a very reliable perimeter corner with enough experience to help provide leadership in the locker room.

Overview

When it comes to free agency, the Lions are in a very enviable position. They have a tremendous amount of cap space, and they only have a few very specific needs on which to use it.

Addressing the offensive line with new contracts or free-agent signings is a must. The Lions may also work on an extension for quarterback Jared Goff, who has proved himself worthy since arriving in Detroit three years ago.

After that, though, Detroit can largely focus on bolstering its defensive back seven.

It would be a big win for Detroit to walk away with a top cornerback like Gilmore, but it should also target more budget-friendly corners like Rock Ya-Sin, Sean Murphy-Bunting and Ronald Darby along the way.

Detroit should be active early and throughout free agency, and the Lions probably won’t wait until the draft to address their biggest needs. Their Super Bowl window just opened, and they’re poised to take advantage.

Green Bay Packers12 of 32

Packers general manager Brian GutekunstMichael Hickey/Getty Images

Updated Salary-Cap Space: $12.7 million

Top Pending Free Agents: RB AJ Dillon, OT Yosh Nijman, G Jon Runyan, S Darnell Savage, S Christian Uphoff

Potential Trade Assets: OT David Bakhtiari, WR Christian Watson, DT Kenny Clark

Potential Trade Targets: S Budda Baker, OT Garett Bolles, C Bradley Bozeman

Biggest Positions of Need: Offensive Tackle, Safety, Center

Potential Signing 1: OT Donovan Smith

The Green Bay Packers learned in 2023 that they have their quarterback in Jordan Love. Now, it’s time to build around the 25-year-old and forge the sort of perennial contender that Green Bay had under Brett Favre and Aaron Rodgers.

Protecting Love should be one of the team’s biggest goals, and the Packers need to find a long-term replacement for David Bakhtiari. Ideally, they’ll find one in the draft, but bringing in veteran insurance would be wise.

Donovan Smith might not be an elite left tackle, but he’s a two-time Super Bowl champion and would be more than serviceable as a short-term contributor.

Potential Signing 2: C Andre James

Green Bay could also use help on the offensive interior, where Josh Myers largely underwhelmed in 2023.

Myers was responsible for five penalties and five sacks allowed, according to Pro Football Focus, and he struggled to consistently provide a push in the running game. Myers isn’t a complete liability, but the Packers would be wise to find an upgrade.

Las Vegas’ Andre James has emerged as one of the league’s better centers over the last couple of seasons, and he is an asset in the ground game. At only 26 years old, he could be a long-term building block for the Packers’ line.

Potential Dream Signing: S Geno Stone

With safeties Rudy Ford and Darnell Savage both scheduled to be free agents, the Packers need help in the secondary. Several good safeties, including Antoine Winfield Jr., Kyle Dugger and Kamren Curl, are slated to hit the market.

However, Green Bay should be very interested in landing Ravens safety Geno Stone. The 24-year-old just started to come into his own as a significant contributor this past season, and he did not disappoint.

Stone finished the year with nine passes defended and seven interceptions while allowing an opposing passer rating of just 63.8.

A young ascending player with plenty of big-play ability, Stone would be an ideal addition for a team with an open playoff window.

Overview

Green Bay became a formidable force late in the season and in the playoffs and was only narrowly outlasted by the San Francisco 49ers in the divisional round. It doesn’t have a roster with a lot of glaring weaknesses, and much of the offseason will be spent re-signing or replacing departed players.

For the Packers to be active in free agency—which, to be fair, isn’t the franchise’s modus operandi—general manager Brian Gutekunst will need to generate more cap space.

Since Green Bay is typically more focused on drafting and developing players than throwing out free-agent money, we probably won’t see a ton of early activity. While a young star like Stone would be a tremendous acquisition, budget-friendly options like Jordan Poyer and Rodney McLeod are probably more realistic.

The Packers will likely do most of their work in April’s draft, though with a playoff-ready roster, they shouldn’t be afraid to make a free-agency splash.

Houston Texans13 of 32

Texans general manager Nick CaserioMichael Hickey/Getty Images

Updated Salary-Cap Space: $62.9 million

Top Pending Free Agents: EDGE Jonathan Greenard, CB Steven Nelson, OT George Fant, LB Blake Cashman, RB Devin Singletary

Potential Trade Assets: WR Robert Woods, QB Davis Mills, RB Dameon Pierce

Potential Trade Targets: DT Aaron Donald, CB Paulson Adebo, EDGE Joey Bosa

Biggest Positions of Need: Cornerback, Interior Defensive Line, EDGE

Potential Signing 1: RB Saquon Barkley

Devin Singletary is scheduled to be a free agent, while Dameon Pierce took a definitive step back after a good rookie season. The Texans offense is blossoming into one of the most promising units in the league. Adding Saquon Barkley to the mix would only expedite the process. His ability to do everything and create big plays would make him exceptionally dangerous in Houston.

Potential Signing 2: CB Ronald Darby

Steven Nelson did a great job across from Derek Stingley Jr. last season. However, he might have done well enough to lift his price tag to a range the Texans are unwilling to go. If that’s the case, then Ronald Darby is worth a look. He has a nearly identical frame and is coming off a strong season of his own in Baltimore (63.3 passer rating allowed).

Potential Dream Signing: DT Christian Wilkins

Head coach DeMeco Ryans is starting to have the foundation of a great defense. Will Anderson Jr. lived up to the hype as the third overall selection in last year’s draft, and there are promising young pieces all over the unit.

What the Texans don’t have is a premier defensive tackle who can anchor against the run while rushing the quarterback. Christian Wilkins is that guy. He can align all over the interior of the defensive line and ended up having his best season as a pass-rusher last year, registering a pressure rate of 12.4 percent.

If they could bring back Jonathan Greenard and sign Wilkins, they would have a scary trio up front. Anderson, Greenard and Wilkins would be nearly impossible to block and terrifying once C.J. Stroud and the offense give them a lead.

Overview

The Texans are one of the most well-positioned teams in the 2024 offseason. Houston won the AFC South and a wild-card game, but it did it with huge contributions from players on cheap veteran deals and rookie contracts.

That has set up the Texans with a young core that’s worth getting excited about and an abundance of cap space.

They have the financial flexibility of a team in the middle of a complete rebuild with a roster that has shown it can win. That puts them in a great position to get aggressive, make some key signings and try to push this roster to an even higher level.

Indianapolis Colts14 of 32

Colts general manager Chris BallardRich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Updated Salary-Cap Space: $52.9 million

Top Pending Free Agents: CB Kenny Moore II, QB Gardner Minshew, DT Grover Stewart, S Julian Blackmon, RB Zack Moss

Potential Trade Assets: DT DeForest Buckner, No. 15 pick, TE Mo Alie-Cox

Potential Trade Targets: CB L’Jarius Sneed, EDGE Khalil Mack, DT Levi Onwuzurike

Biggest Positions of Need: Cornerback, Safety, EDGE

Potential Signing 1: WR Gabe Davis

With Michael Pittman Jr. now under contract for next season, the wide receiver position is less of a need, but it still would be ideal to grab another vertical ball-winner. Anthony Richardson has a Josh Allen-esque arm, and Gabe Davis did well as a No. 2 receiver with Allen in Buffalo.

Davis might have been inconsistent, but he put up some big games in his time with the Bills. Add him to the duo of Pittman and Josh Downs and you would have a young trio of receivers who can grow along with Richardson throughout his rookie contract.

Potential Signing 2: S Xavier McKinney

Xavier McKinney avoided the franchise tag from the New York Giants and might be the best safety available. The Colts might have found a starting safety in the 2022 draft with Nick Cross, but Julian Blackmon is set to be a free agent, and he ended the season on the injured reserve with a shoulder injury.

McKinney thrives while playing as a deep safety, which is a skill set that would pair well with Cross and elevate the entire Colts secondary.

Potential Dream Signing: EDGE Danielle Hunter

The Colts actually have the foundation for a strong group of edge-rushers. Samson Ebukam, Kwity Paye and Dayo Odeyingbo are all good secondary pass-rushers. They combined for 26 sacks. However, none are the kind of rushers that command double-teams.

Hunter has proved throughout his career that he’s that guy. After dealing with serious injuries in 2020 and 2021, he has come back with a vengeance, putting up 27 sacks over the last two seasons.

The 29-year-old has had success in a 3-4 and 4-3. He’s versatile enough to be effective in any defense and would give the Colts’ defensive front a major upgrade.

Overview

The Colts have already flexed some of their cap muscles. They placed the franchise tag on Michael Pittman Jr., which will cost them $21.8 million this season if they don’t figure out a long-term contract with their young wideout.

Even with the big one-year financial burden, they still have plenty of cap space. Head coach Shane Steichen probably had this team punching a bit above its weight last season, and that puts the Colts in a situation where they can build on that success with their excess money.

Jacksonville Jaguars15 of 32

Jaguars general manager Trent BaalkeStacy Revere/Getty Images

Updated Salary-Cap Space: $17.3 million

Top Pending Free Agents: WR Calvin Ridley, iOL Tyler Shatley, CB Tre Herndon, DL Dawuane Smoot, EDGE K’Lavon Chaisson

Potential Trade Assets: OT Cam Robinson, WR Zay Jones, LB Chad Muma

Potential Trade Targets: EDGE Joey Bosa, DT Jonathan Allen, EDGE Carl Granderson

Biggest Positions of Need: EDGE, Interior Defender, Cornerback

Potential Signing 1: C Andre James

The Jaguars traded for Ezra Cleveland and then signed him to an extension before free agency started so that’s a need that’s been taken care of. However, center could still be a question mark. Luke Fortner was one of the worst at the position by PFF grade. Andre James is a veteran starter with solid grades for the Raiders.

Potential Signing 2: EDGE Jadeveon Clowney

The Jaguars are losing some depth on the edges. Bringing back Josh Allen is huge, but Dawuane Smoot and K’Lavon Chaisson are both set to be free agents. Finding a veteran who can play a good chunk of defensive snaps and bolster the pass rush would be a significant improvement for the defense.

Clowney fits the profile. The 31-year-old tied a career high of 9.5 sacks with the Ravens last season. He could pair well with Allen and allow Travon Walker to line up all over the place.

Potential Dream Signing: EDGE Bryce Huff

The Jaguars already have two athletic marvels working as the cornerstone of their pass rush. Josh Allen took his game to another level in 2023, and Travon Walker is still putting everything together but has some of the best measurables ever.

If the Jaguars added Bryce Huff to the mix, there wouldn’t be a lot of offensive lines that would have the athletes to block all of them. Huff has one of the fastest get-offs in football, and he is coming off a career season in which he had 10 sacks and 21 quarterback hits.

Huff struggles to play the run and works best as a pass-rush specialist, but that works out because Walker is versatile and can serve as an edge defender on running downs while kicking inside in passing situations.

Overview

The Jaguars have a few major decisions to make, and they already got a start on them when they franchise-tagged Josh Allen. Calvin Ridley is the next order of business. Jeremy Fowler of ESPN reported that the Jaguars would like to bring him back, but he’s set to earn a “gaudy” contract.

Jacksonville already went to work to clear out cap space, releasing Darious Williams, Rayshawn Jenkins and Folorunso Fatukasi in preparation for the dawn of free agency.

The room created, plus additional room made by an extension for Allen, could free up enough cash to not only bring back Ridley, but also spend on some external free agents.

In addition to defensive needs, the Jaguars seek answers on the interior of the offensive line with Ezra Cleveland and Tyler Shatley both about to hit free agency.

Kansas City Chiefs16 of 32

Chiefs general manager Brett VeachDavid Eulitt/Getty Images

Updated Salary-Cap Space: $7.5 million

Top Pending Free Agents: DT Chris Jones, EDGE Mike Danna, OT Donovan Smith, LB Willie Gay Jr., S Mike Edwards

Potential Trade Assets: S Justin Reid, CB L’Jarius Sneed, No. 32 pick

Potential Trade Targets: DT Jonathan Allen, WR Tyler Lockett, WR Amari Cooper

Biggest Positions of Need: Wide Receiver, Interior Defender, EDGE

Potential Signing 1: WR Darnell Mooney

The Chiefs have the advantage of having a near-perfect setup for a wide receiver to thrive. Patrick Mahomes is an elite quarterback, and head coach Andy Reid is one of the best offensive minds there is. However, their receivers outside Rashee Rice couldn’t really take advantage.

That’s why Darnell Mooney would be a logical signing. He had 1,000 yards receiving in his second NFL season, but he’s been under 500 in each of the last two seasons since. If he’s ever going to become a solid No. 2 receiver again, it would be with the Chiefs.

Potential Signing 2: DT Justin Jones

Speaking of Chicago Bears free agents who might fly under the radar, Justin Jones would be a good fit for Kansas City as well. Chris Jones is taking up a lot of the Chiefs’ bandwidth right now, but they still have to address their interior depth whether they re-sign him or not.

Justin Jones is quick off the ball and had 4.5 sacks with 17 quarterback hits this season. He could either be a rotational piece or a cheap way to replace some of Chris Jones’ production if he leaves.

Potential Dream Signing: OT Tyron Smith

The Chiefs tried to go the bargain free-agent route at left tackle last season. When Donovan Smith fell in their laps after they signed Jawaan Taylor, it looked like a perfect fit. Unfortunately, Smith was just not quite the player he used to be. He was graded out at 55.2 by PFF and had 38 blown blocks, per Sports Info Solutions.

Tyron Smith is old enough (33) with a fairly significant injury history that he’s likely going to cost less than one might expect. Unlike Smith, he’s not showing signs of slowing down when it comes to his play on the field, though.

Overview

The defending Super Bowl champions are primarily going to be preoccupied by trying to bring back some major players from last year’s championship roster.

They kicked things off by using the franchise tag on L’Jarius Sneed. It extends the window the Chiefs have to negotiate a long-term contract, but Jeremy Fowler of ESPN also reported the Chiefs are open to trading him if they can’t come to terms.

Chris Jones is the other major domino. After he held out early in the 2023 season, the Chiefs decided not to use the tag to retain him. Now the pressure is on to come up with a new contract that will keep the disruptive interior defender in Kansas City.

If they do, it’s likely the free-agent budget becomes small pretty quickly. They are already tiptoeing the salary-cap line. If they don’t sign him, then there’s a chance they make a few somewhat splashy moves to make up the difference.

Las Vegas Raiders17 of 32

Raiders general manager Tom Telesco and head coach Antonio PierceEthan Miller/Getty Images

Updated Salary-Cap Space: $47.2 million

Top Pending Free Agents: RB Josh Jacobs, OL Jermaine Eluemunor, OG Greg Van Roten, C Andre James, CB Amik Robertson

Potential Trade Assets: WR Davante Adams, WR Hunter Renfrow, No. 13 Pick

Potential Trade Targets: QB Justin Fields, OT Walker Little, Top-10 pick (for quarterback)

Biggest Positions of Need: Quarterback, Right Tackle, Interior Defender

Potential Signing 1: QB Russell Wilson

The Raiders aren’t in the best position to draft a quarterback. If they want Caleb Williams, Drake Maye or Jayden Daniels, it’s going to require a massive trade up from No. 13. Even J.J. McCarthy could be out of range. Trading for Justin Fields is an option.

However, if the Raiders decide to go the patient route, then signing Wilson on the cheap would buy them a year to find a long-term option. The fit might not be perfect, but Wilson could be better than Aidan O’Connell.

Potential Signing 2: OL Mike Onwenu

The Raiders have potential needs at both right guard and right tackle. Greg Van Roten played really well this year but he’s 34 years old and set to be a free agent. Jermaine Eluemunor has become a reliable starter who could play either spot, but he might have priced himself out of what the Raiders are willing to pay.

Signing Mike Onwenu would be an upgrade over Eluemunor anyway. The Patriots big man can play both guard and tackle and would provide a long-term answer on the offensive line.

Potential Dream Signing: DT Chris Jones

Outside of landing a true franchise quarterback, the Raiders couldn’t make a bigger move than signing Chris Jones. Not only would it instantly make their defense one of the most elite groups on paper, but it would really strike a blow against their AFC West rival Chiefs.

Jones is a game-wrecker on the inside. He was tied with Aaron Donald in pass-rush win rate among all defensive tackles, per ESPN, and he drew 10 double-teams at a 9 percent higher clip than the future Hall of Famer.

Putting that kind of talent beside Maxx Crosby is bound to give offenses headaches. Throw in Malcolm Koonce, who blossomed under Pierce, and last year’s first-round pick Tyree Wilson, and the Raiders would have a fearsome front four.

Overview

Who will be under center for the Raiders in 2024?

That’s the biggest question that’s going to be asked of the Silver and Black this offseason, but it’s far from the only one.

Antonio Pierce had this team playing good football by the end of the season. There are still multiple needs that will have to be addressed for the Raiders to build off that positive momentum, though. Tom Telesco wasn’t the most successful general manager with the Chargers, but he has more than a decade of experience with the job.

The bones are there for the Raiders to continue to be a solid team. Now Telesco has a notable free-agency budget to make some prudent moves and get the roster to the next level.

Los Angeles Chargers18 of 32

Charger head coach Jim HarbaughAllen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images

Updated Salary-Cap Space: minus-$18.6 million

Top Pending Free Agents: RB Austin Ekeler, LB Kenneth Murray, S Alohi Gilman, CB Michael Davis, TE Gerald Everett

Potential Trade Assets: EDGE Khalil Mack, EDGE Joey Bosa, WR Mike Williams

Potential Trade Targets: Draft Picks, WR Rondale Moore, DT Levi Onwuzurike

Biggest Positions of Need: Cornerback, Interior Defender, Wide Receiver

Potential Signing 1: DT Teair Tart

The Chargers are going to have to be willing to take some calculated risks to uncover some value in free agency. Teair Tart could qualify. The 27-year-old was released by the Titans last season before getting picked up by the Texans. However, Houston only played him 29 snaps.

When he’s on top of his game, he’s an underrated run-stuffer who holds up at the point of attack and commands double-teams. The Chargers would do well to give him a fresh start.

Potential Signing 2: CB Adoree’ Jackson

Again, the Chargers aren’t going to be in the conversation for free agents who don’t have some kind of flaw. For Adoree’ Jackson, it’s the fact that he’s dealt with quite a few injuries. He has missed games over the last four seasons due to quad, knee and neck ailments. However, he’s still played at a starter-level when he’s been on the field, and he has the versatility to play outside and in the slot.

Potential Dream Signing: DT DJ Reader

If you’re looking at free agents who could wind up going for much less than anticipated, DJ Reader comes to mind. Last time Reader was on the open market, he came away with a four-year, $53 million contract from the Cincinnati Bengals.

Now he’s 29 years old and coming off a torn quad that he suffered in Week 15. That kind of injury, combined with his age, could force Reader to take a one year “prove-it” deal so that he could hit the market again before he gets too deep into his 30s.

That’s a dream scenario for the Chargers, as it could net them an elite run-stuffer in the middle who is hungry to earn a much larger contract. Their cap situation might be better next offseason when they could offer him a significant extension.

Overview

The Chargers are set to embark on a new era, and it isn’t just because Jim Harbaugh is coming to town. Los Angeles moved on from Tom Telesco as its general manager, and the team is dealing with a bloated payroll that includes four players with cap hits in excess of $30 million in Khalil Mack, Joey Bosa, Keenan Allen and Mike Williams.

It’s not likely that they will bring all four back, and they definitely can’t do it without modifying some contracts.

Add in the fact that Austin Ekeler is a free agent, and the Chargers are bound to look a lot different in 2024.

Their cap situation isn’t going to allow a lot of that transformation to happen through free agency. Harbaugh is going to have to win with what he has right now, which is arguably a group that underachieved last season.

Los Angeles Rams19 of 32

Rams general manager Les SneadZach Bolinger/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Updated Salary-Cap Space: $43.6 million

Top Pending Free Agents: S Jordan Fuller, S John Johnson III, CB Ahkello Witherspoon, C Coleman Shelton, OT Alaric Jackson (restricted)

Potential Trade Assets: DT Aaron Donald, OT Joe Noteboom, WR Tutu Atwell

Potential Trade Targets: CB L’Jarius Sneed, OT Garett Bolles, QB Trey Lance

Biggest Positions of Need: Cornerback, EDGE, Future QB

Potential Signing 1: QB Jacoby Brissett

At some point, the Los Angeles Rams need to find an heir to 36-year-old quarterback Matthew Stafford. They may not do it this offseason, but if they do, they’ll likely do it in the draft.

However, L.A. still needs to find a reliable backup quarterback, as Carson Wentz is slated to be a free agent. Stafford was mostly healthy in 2023, but he did miss a game with a thumb injury.

With the team back to being a playoff contender, Los Angeles can’t afford to skimp on its QB insurance policy. The Rams need to be able to win a game or two without Stafford, and journeyman Jacoby Brissett is seasoned and talented enough to be a quality bridge if needed.

Potential Signing 2: CB Kendall Fuller

Los Angeles was an offensive force in 2023, thanks to a (mostly) healthy Stafford and budding stars like Puka Nacua and Kyren Williams. The Rams defense, however, could use work.

Los Angeles finished the year ranked 20th in pass defense, 20th in total yards allowed and 19th in points allowed. The Rams could use better depth at cornerback, and Washington Commanders corner Kendall Fuller is a logical target.

Fuller turned 29 in January and had a bit of a down season on a bad Commanders defense, but he’s been a very reliable starter over the years. A one-time Super Bowl champion with Kansas City, he’d also add another veteran presence to a locker room that got dramatically younger over the past year.

Potential Dream Signing: EDGE Josh Uche

Los Angeles might have the league’s best defensive tackle duo in Aaron Donald and Kobie Turner. To form a complete and elite defensive front, though, L.A. could desperately use a top-notch edge-rusher.

The Rams have tried in the past to add one. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Rams offered a pair of first-round picks and a second-rounder to the Panthers for pass-rusher Brian Burns back in 2022.

Presumably, general manager Les Snead is still willing to chase a high-end sack artist, and with Burns and Jacksonville’s Josh Allen getting the franchise tag, a young sack artist like Josh Uche could make the most sense.

Uche is best utilized as a situational rusher, but he’s shown an ability to make an impact in that role.

Overview

The Rams proved last season that they could return to contention by drafting well and placing quality young talent around their aging core of Stafford, Donald and Cooper Kupp. They’ll likely continue along that path this offseason, and most of their free-agent targets will probably fall on the under side of 30.

Most of L.A.’s focus should fall on the defensive side of the ball, though retaining offensive linemen like restricted free agent Alaric Jackson should be a priority.

While the Rams’ primary focus may be on the draft, they have the cap space to be active in free agency. If they can’t land a top edge-rusher, they’ll likely grab a lower-tier sack artist like Charles Harris or Clelin Ferrell.

And while Snead and the Rams may consider a splash trade, they’ll likely only do so for a young ascending player. The days of chasing aging veterans with an “F them picks” mentality are likely over in Los Angeles.

Miami Dolphins20 of 32

Dolphins general manager Chris GrierMichael Reaves/Getty Images

Updated Salary-Cap Space: minus-$16.7million

Top Pending Free Agents: DT Christian Wilkins, iOL Robert Hunt, EDGE Andrew Van Ginkel, S DeShon Elliott, CB Eli Apple

Potential Trade Assets: CB Jalen Ramsey, LB David Long, No. 21 Pick

Potential Trade Targets: EDGE Azeez Ojulari, Middle-Round Picks, OG Damien Lewis

Biggest Positions of Need: Interior Offensive Line, Interior Defender, EDGE

Potential Signing 1: EDGE Dorance Armstrong

If Andrew Van Ginkel ends up being too pricey for the Dolphins then they are going to have a real need for depth on the edge. Bradley Chubb and Jaelan Phillips are a great 1-2 punch but Van Ginkel came up huge when both went down with injuries. Dorance Armstrong has been an underrated contributor on a great Dallas Cowboys defensive front.

He would be an ideal addition who could help replace Emmanuel Ogbah and Van Ginkel’s roles.

Potential Signing 2: LB Eric Kendricks

The release of Jerome Baker opens a sizable hole in the middle of the Dolphins defense. They have six picks in the draft, but it would help to have a veteran at a position where communication and experience are so valuable. Kendricks was recently released by the cap-strapped Chargers.

The Dolphins would be wise to offer a contract to the 32-year-old who might have a diminished market due to his age and the devaluing of the off-ball linebacker position.

Potential Dream Signing: OG Laken Tomlinson

The Dolphins are set to have multiple needs on the interior of the offensive line. Both Connor Williams and Robert Hunt are set to become free agents and the Dolphins lack of cap space is going to make it a challenge to even retain one of them, let alone both.

The draft is obviously an avenue the Dolphins could go to find one replacement. But expecting two rookies to start is not a great plan on the offensive line.

Instead, the ideal scenario is that a fairly deep class of free agent guards drives the price down to the point that the Dolphins can fit a veteran starter on the books. Laken Tomlinson was a bit of a disappointment for the Jets last season, but the 32-year-old could rejuvenate his career by reuniting with Mike McDonald in a Kyle Shanahan-style offense.

Overview

The Dolphins are already feeling the pain of their cap situation. They released defensive starters Jerome Backer and Emmanuel Ogbah in cap-clearing moves. Xavien Howard was also released with a post-June 1 designation.

Add in the pressure of a potential extension for Tua Tagovailoa and Christian Wilkins heading toward free agency, and the Dolphins are in a good old-fashioned cap quandary.

Expect that to heavily impact their free-agency decisions. They will need to be strategic with how they target specific needs and will likely be relegated to targeting players in the third and fourth waves of signings.

Right now, it’s just about getting cap-compliant and seeing what happens with the draft.

Minnesota Vikings21 of 32

Vikings general manager Kwesi Adofo-MensahStephen Maturen/Getty Images

Updated Salary-Cap Space: $40.9 million

Top Pending Free Agents: QB Kirk Cousins, EDGE Marcus Davenport, EDGE Danielle Hunter, K Greg Joseph, WR K.J. Osborn

Potential Trade Assets: WR Justin Jefferson, S Harrison Smith, CB Byron Murphy

Potential Trade Targets: EDGE Josh Sweat, DT Davon Godchaux, First-Round Pick

Biggest Positions of Need: Quarterback, EDGE, Running Back

Potential Signing 1: QB Jacoby Brissett

According to ESPN’s Dan Graziano, “the sense” is that Minnesota Vikings have not offered quarterback Kirk Cousins a contract to which he is agreeable. There’s a very real chance that Cousins departs in free agency and Minnesota hits the quarterback market this offseason.

Targeting a signal-caller with the 11th pick in April’s draft is also a possibility. However, Minnesota should be eager to land some reliable veteran insurance after rotating between Nick Mullens, Joshua Dobbs and Jaren Hall following Cousins’ ACL tear.

Jacoby Brissett is exactly the sort of experienced and capable pocket passer who could run Kevin O’Connell’s offense and be a mentor to a rookie quarterback in 2024.

Potential Signing 2: RB Josh Jacobs

The Vikings struggled to maintain offensive balance in 2023, as their running game wasn’t as effective following the release of Dalvin Cook. Alexander Mattison struggled in the every-down role last season and was recently released.

While Minnesota did see some flashes from Ty Chandler (4.5 yards per carry), it should be on the hunt for a more reliable starter. Raiders running back Josh Jacobs would be a great candidate to fill the void.

Jacobs didn’t have the best season in 2023, missing time with a quad injury and averaging just 35 yards per carry. However, he’s a proven dual-threat back who can handle a high-volume workload.

In 2022, Jacobs led the NFL in both yards rushing and yards from scrimmage.

Potential Dream Signing: Edge Bryce Huff

The Vikings could lose both Danielle Hunter and Marcus Davenport in free agency, leaving them with a sizable need on the edge. Minnesota has made an effort to re-sign Hunter, according to Graziano, but if he departs, Bryce Huff could be the perfect replacement.

Like Hunter, Huff was productive in 2023, finishing with 10.0 sacks and 33 quarterback pressures. While Huff wouldn’t outright replace Hunter as the No. 1 edge-rusher, the 25-year-old could be a long-term piece of Minnesota’s defensive puzzle.

Overview

Much of Minnesota’s offseason will be defined by how the team handles its own players. Cousins and Hunter are both centerpieces, and neither is going to be retained on a bargain price.

Additionally, the Vikings are due to give star receiver Justin Jefferson a substantial raise. The three-time Pro Bowler is entering the final year of his rookie deal and has been extension-eligible since last offseason.

Depending on how Jefferson’s next contract is structured, it could improve Minnesota’s cap situation rather dramatically. He’s set to carry a $19.7 million cap hit, and a new, back-loaded contract could free up quite a bit of cap space.

Minnesota might not make a lot of moves if it retains both Cousins and Hunter, but it should be very active in early free agency if either departs. And even if Hunter is retained, adding more pass-rushing help in the form of a budget option like Bud Dupree or Yannick Ngakoue would be advisable.

New England Patriots22 of 32

Patriots head coach Jerod MayoJonathan Wiggs/The Boston Globe via Getty Images

Updated Salary-Cap Space: $75.4 million

Top Pending Free Agents: OL Mike Onwenu, CB Myles Bryant, EDGE Josh Uche, OT Trent Brown, RB Ezekiel Elliott

Potential Trade Assets: No. 3 Overall Pick, QB Mac Jones, DT Davon Godchaux

Potential Trade Targets: QB Justin Fields, WR Mike Williams, WR Jerry Jeudy

Biggest Positions of Need: Quarterback, Offensive Tackle, Wide Receiver

Potential Signing 1: OT Mekhi Becton

Bringing back Trent Brown would be nice. Assuming there’s a rookie quarterback in New England, pass protection is going to be important. The Patriots should be in the business of targeting young free agents with good upside, though. They are in a rebuild after all.

Mekhi Becton’s career got off to a rocky start with injuries, but he’s only 24 years old and has a first-round pedigree. Becton isn’t likely to break the bank and the upside is that he could become a viable starter at a critical position.

Potential Signing 2: TE Noah Fant

Jeff Howe of The Athletic reported that the Patriots’ priorities in free agency will be wide receiver, offensive tackle and tight end, in that order. They re-signed Hunter Henry, but if the Patriots are hoping to be able to run 12 personnel at teams then Fant could still be a consideration.

He’s still young at 26 years old and could live up to the potential we saw in him in Denver before he got traded to Seattle in the Russell Wilson deal.

Potential Dream Signing: WR Calvin Ridley

The Patriots are going to need more than a new quarterback to rejuvenate their passing game. The growing assumption is that the Patriots will take a quarterback with the third pick, as they did in our most recent mock draft. In that scenario, it’s LSU’s Jayden Daniels.

Mac Jones has plenty of flaws as a quarterback, but the Patriots also didn’t set him up for success. The Patriots’ offensive coaching hires were questionable, and they certainly didn’t give him the receivers he needed to develop into an NFL starter.

The Pats can’t make that mistake again. With the Bengals tagging Tee Higgins and the Colts doing the same to Michael Pittman Jr., Calvin Ridley has become the top young wide receiver on the market.

Bringing him on would be a huge swing in the right direction for the Patriots offense.

Overview

New Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo said that the team will “burn some cash” in free agency. He eventually walked back the statement, but the sentiment is likely to be true.

The idea of spending for the sake of spending is rarely a good idea, but free agency can be an equalizer for a team in the Patriots’ position. They don’t have good answers at most of the premium positions, but they have the opportunity to go out and find some in free agency.

There are a handful of internal free agents they should be attempting to re-sign. Mike Onwenu and Trent Brown are strong starting options on the offensive line, and Josh Uche can be a productive pass-rush specialist.

But the real attraction to free agency for the Patriots is that they have the resources to really go after some of the top names on the market and begin building a foundation Mayo can work with.

New Orleans Saints23 of 32

Saints head coach Dennis AllenChris Graythen/Getty Images

Updated Salary-Cap Space: minus-$15.5 million

Top Pending Free Agents: LB Zack Baun, G Max Garcia, OT Andrus Peat, WR Rashid Shaheed (exclusive rights), QB Jameis Winston

Potential Trade Assets: TE/QB Taysom Hill, OT Trevor Penning, First-Round Pick

Potential Trade Targets: OT Morgan Moses, CB Jaycee Horn, Middle-Round Draft Picks

Biggest Positions of Need: Offensive Tackle, Guard, EDGE

Potential Signing 1: OT Tyron Smith

The New Orleans Saints are facing a pretty unenviable cap situation, and they’ll need to generate more space just to have a functional offseason. Much of their rebuilding will have to be done in the draft.

However, the Saints might be able to find a few bargains in free agency that are worth pursuing. Cowboys left tackle Tyron Smith, for example, has a significant recent injury history that could cause him to accept a team-friendly “prove-it” deal.

Smith is still an above-average starter when healthy, and the Saints could use one since Trevor Penning hasn’t developed as quickly as New Orleans might have hoped. With Andrus Peat headed to free agency, the Saints could consider Smith as a stopgap.

Potential Signing 2: G Jonah Jackson

New Orleans could also use help on the offensive interior. James Hurst was merely serviceable at left guard in 2023, and backup center/guard Max Garcia is slated to hit the market next week.

Lions guard Jonah Jackson has become a quality starter, though he might not generate quite as much interest as some of the market’s bigger names.

Jackson is still likely to receive a fairly significant payday in free agency—as noted, guards are expected to be in high demand—but he might not break the bank. He would also help solidify New Orleans’ interior and provide a boost to a ground game that was largely underwhelming in 2023 (22nd in yards per carry).

Potential Dream Signing: EDGE Josh Uche

Ideally, the Saints will add a competent pass-rusher or two this offseason. New Orleans still has Cameron Jordan, but the 34-year-old saw a notable dip in production this past season (two sacks).

As a team, the Saints recorded a mere 34 sacks in 2023.

Because of the cap situation, chasing a big-name pass-rusher like Josh Allen or Danielle Hunter isn’t realistic. However, a situational specialist like New England’s Josh Uche could be feasible.

Uche regressed statistically in 2023, though it’s worth noting that he played most of the season without Matthew Judon (torn biceps). When Judon was healthy in 2023, however, Uche compiled 11.5 sacks, 25 quarterback pressures and two forced fumbles while playing only 38 percent of the defensive snaps.

While adding Uche wouldn’t give New Orleans an every-down defender, it would help boost the pass rush at a manageable price point. Pass-rushers like Clelin Ferrell and Yannick Ngakoue could be even more budget-friendly alternatives.

Overview

The Saints’ habit of kicking contracts down the road has to stop at some point, but it may not be this offseason. New Orleans is tied to quarterback Derek Carr for at least another year and most likely two.

Carr will still have $40.1 million in dead money on his contract in 2025 if the team were to release him after this season.

Head coach Dennis Allen may also be facing a make-or-break year after missing the playoffs in his first two seasons at the helm. Like it or not, New Orleans has to be in a win-now mode in 2024.

If the Saints can generate the cap space, they’ll likely be active in free agency, though possibly only in the second and third waves. Expect the Saints’ biggest additions, though, to come via the draft.

New York Giants24 of 32

Giants general manager Joe SchoenMichael Hickey/Getty Images

Updated Salary-Cap Space: $41 million

Top Pending Free Agents: RB Saquon Barkley, G Ben Bredeson, CB Adoree’ Jackson, S Xavier McKinney, DE Jihad Ward

Potential Trade Assets: TE Darren Waller, EDGE Azeez Ojulari, First-Round Pick

Potential Trade Targets: WR Tyler Lockett, WR Keenan Allen, First-Round Pick

Biggest Positions of Need: Offensive Tackle, Guard, Wide Receiver

Potential Signing 1: OT Jermaine Eluemunor

It’s looking like the New York Giants may move on from quarterback Daniel Jones as early as this offseason. According to SNY’s Connor Hughes, the Giants’ desire to move up for a quarterback in the draft was the “worst-kept secret” at the scouting combine.

Regardless of what New York does under center this offseason, improving the offensive line is a must. The Giants allowed an alarming 85 sacks in 2023.

Right tackle Evan Neal has largely been a disappointment as a 2022 first-round pick, and the Giants must seriously consider upgrading the position. Las Vegas’ Jermaine Eluemunor has developed into a reliable pass protector over the past couple of seasons, and he cut down on mental mistakes in 2023.

Eluemunor’s penalties dropped from 10 in 2022 to five in 2023, according to Pro Football Focus.

Potential Signing 2: G Robert Hunt

New York needs help at guard, too, especially with Justin Pugh and Ben Bredeson both scheduled to become free agents.

While New York will have to pay a premium to land a dependable interior starter like Miami’s Robert Hunt, it would be a wise investment. Whether the Giants stick with Jones or roll with a rookie quarterback, they can’t afford to be as vulnerable up front.

Hunt would help improve New York’s interior protection while helping to spark a ground game that may or may not have Saquon Barkley in 2024.

Potential Dream Signing: WR Calvin Ridley

New York also needs to improve its receiver room, regardless of who is throwing passes next season. With all due respect to youngsters Wan’Dale Robinson and Jalin Hyatt, the Giants simply don’t have a true No. 1 option on their roster.

Darius Slayton led the Giants with just 770 receiving yards in 2023, and he and Robinson were the only wideouts to top 500 yards.

With Tee Higgins and Michael Pittman Jr. getting the franchise tag and Mike Evans getting his extension, Jacksonville’s Calvin Ridley is the closest thing to a No. 1 receiver on the market.

According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, teams view the receiver as having an elite skill set, and Ridley should boost New York’s passing attack even if it doesn’t open the season with a high-end starter under center.

Overview

Everything this offseason starts with New York’s decision at quarterback. Parting with Jones now isn’t really an option, as he has $69.3 million in dead money remaining on his contract. However, releasing Jones in 2025 is doable—the Giants would save $19.4 million in 2025 cap space—as is drafting his replacement now.

Given Jones’ injury history and poor play in 2023, even before his torn ACL, New York would be smart to make a change if at all possible.

And the Giants should do everything they can to give their next quarterback the support they failed to give Jones. They’ll face a tough decision regarding Barkley, who is the team’s most consistent offensive player when healthy but also has his own significant injury history. However, improving the line and the receiver room must be top priorities.

New York isn’t exactly loaded with cap space, but it should have the financial flexibility to be active in the early stages of free agency. Expect players like wideout K.J. Osborn and receiver Cedric Wilson Jr. to interest the Giants in the later stages of free agency too.

New York Jets25 of 32

Jets general manager Joe DouglasMichael Hickey/Getty Images

Updated Salary-Cap Space: $27.5 million

Top Pending Free Agents: EDGE Bryce Huff, S Jordan Whitehead, OT Mekhi Becton, DL Solomon Thomas, DT Quinton Jefferson

Potential Trade Assets: No. 10 Overall Pick, LB C.J. Mosley, TE Tyler Conklin

Potential Trade Targets: WR Davante Adams, OT David Bakhtiari, Day 2 Draft Picks

Biggest Positions of Need: Offensive Tackle, Wide Receiver, Safety

Potential Signing 1: OL Jermaine Eluemunor

Priority No. 1 should be keeping Aaron Rodgers upright. After watching how quickly things went south without the quarterback last season, the Jets can’t mess up his protection in front of him. Eluemunor isn’t going to command a huge contract, but he’s a serviceable right tackle who can also kick inside and play guard. That flexibility is nice for a line that had a lot of injuries last season.

Potential Signing 2: WR Michael Thomas

The Jets need to fill some vital holes if they want to make the most of 2024. That means rolling the dice on some free agents with high upside. Michael Thomas’ days as a dominant receiver are a distant memory. He’s only played in 13 games over the last three seasons.

But if he puts it all together and is healthy in 2024, he could be a high-end No. 2 receiver across from Garrett Wilson.

Potential Dream Signing: OT Tyron Smith

The Jets need a left tackle they can trust. Tyron Smith was the fourth-highest-graded tackle in the league, according to PFF.

If Smith were a few years younger and didn’t have a questionable injury history, he wouldn’t even sniff free agency or he’d be ready to get a Trent Williams-esque payday. However, he’s 33 years old and has multiple ailments that have caused him to miss at least a handful of games every season since 2016.

That being said, the Jets aren’t going to get better play at left tackle than what Smith can provide them. His age and injury history should make him an affordable option. As long as he can be healthy for the biggest games, the Jets could see a big swing in their offensive line play with Smith.

Overview

The pressure is mounting for the New York Jets to win. After they brought in Aaron Rodgers, there were a lot of expectations on the 2023 season that went down when the QB tore his Achilles.

Now the front office and coaching staff have to feel the weight of those expectations to win with a 40-year-old Rodgers coming off a major injury.

The Jets have created a decent bit of cap space, but the interesting question will be how much of it is dedicated to bringing back a large class of their own free agents.

Overall, the Jets have cleared enough space to go after a few proven vets deserving of mid-sized contracts. They could also be players in the second or third wave of free agency for veterans who feel like they might be able to contend in 2024.

Philadelphia Eagles26 of 32

Eagles general manager Howie RosemanMitchell Leff/Getty Images

Updated Salary-Cap Space: $40.7 million

Top Pending Free Agents: DT Fletcher Cox, DE Brandon Graham, CB Bradley Roby, RB D’Andre Swift, WR Olamide Zaccheaus

Potential Trade Assets: EDGE Haason Reddick, EDGE Josh Sweat, First-Round Pick

Potential Trade Targets: CB L’Jarius Sneed, S Budda Baker, First-Round Pick

Biggest Positions of Need: Cornerback, Safety, Linebacker

Potential Signing 1: S C.J. Gardner-Johnson

The Philadelphia Eagles struggled down the stretch in 2023, seeing a 10-1 record crumble into an 11-6 mark, a wild-card berth and then an early playoff exit.

Most of the Eagles’ issues reside on defense, where the back seven was particularly problematic. Philly finished the year ranked 31st in passing yards allowed, 26th in total yards allowed and 30th in points allowed.

Bringing back versatile defensive back C.J. Gardner-Johnson after he spent the 2023 season in Detroit would be a great way to start the reloading process. Gardner-Johnson was a standout during Philly’s 2022 Super Bowl run, and he’s already familiar with the team and personnel.

Potential Signing 2: CB Stephon Gilmore

The Eagles also need help at cornerback, where James Bradberry saw a big regression in 2023. He allowed an opposing passer rating of 114.3 in coverage after allowing a rating of just 51.6 the previous year.

Stephon Gilmore may be 33 years old, but he’s still a very capable perimeter corner. He started all 17 games for Dallas in 2023 and allowed an opposing passer rating of only 82.7 in coverage.

Gilmore would only command a short-term deal, but he would be a great veteran addition who could allow the Eagles to draft and develop an eventual long-term replacement.

Plucking Gilmore away from the rival Cowboys would be a bonus.

Potential Dream Signing: LB Patrick Queen

While the Eagles had plenty of issues in coverage last season, poor tackling was also a problem. Despite having a stout defensive front, Philly ranked just 20th in yards allowed per carry.

Adding a premier second-level defender would be wise, and Baltimore’s Patrick Queen is the perfect free-agency target. He had a breakout campaign in 2023 while playing alongside Roquan Smith, finishing with 133 tackles, 3.5 sacks, eight passes defended and a Pro Bowl nod.

Some of Queen’s 2023 production can be attributed to playing in a terrific Baltimore defense and alongside a premier linebacker like Smith. However, his sound instincts and elite closing speed showed up on film long before Smith’s arrival in Baltimore.

Adding Queen would give the Eagles at least one top-tier defender at the second level.

Overview

There will be changes in Philadelphia this offseason. The Eagles already have new offensive and defensive coordinators in Kellen Moore and Vic Fangio, respectively. Longtime center Jason Kelce also recently announced his retirement.

At least on defense, though, there shouldn’t be a huge schematic shift. Fangio’s system shares a lot of similarities with that of former coordinator Jonathan Gannon, so improving the defensive roster will be more important than restructuring it.

The Eagles do need to improve their defense, though, and in a big way. Adding Fangio should help, but there isn’t enough talent or depth on the back end for Philly to be considered a legitimate title contender.

Offensively, the Eagles have a solid foundation. They’ll need to re-sign or replace running back D’Andre Swift and figure out a plan for replacing Kelce. Adding a reliable third receiver should also be on the to-do list.

When it comes to spending big in free agency, however, most of the attention should be on the defense. Philadelphia isn’t loaded with cap space, but it should be active when the market opens (unofficially) on Monday.

Pittsburgh Steelers27 of 32

Steelers general manager Omar KhanJustin Casterline/Getty Images

Updated Salary-Cap Space: $26.3 million

Top Pending Free Agents: CB Levi Wallace, CB Chandon Sullivan, DT Montravius Adams, LB Kwon Alexander, EDGE Markus Golden

Potential Trade Assets: No. 20 Pick, QB Mason Rudolph, WR Diontae Johnson

Potential Trade Targets: C Ted Karras, CB Jonathan Jones, Early Draft Pick

Biggest Positions of Need: Quarterback, Offensive Tackle, Cornerback

Potential Signing 1: C Aaron Brewer

One of the first moves the Steelers made to improve their cap situation was release center Mason Cole. How the Steelers plan on replacing him will be interesting. It is a strong draft class at the position. Jackson Powers-Johnson, Graham Barton and Zach Frazier could all be high quality centers early in their careers.

However, there are a number of veterans who could be had at a value. Aaron Brewer is a strong run blocker who is only 26 and started every game for the Titans the last two seasons.

Potential Signing 2: CB Kristian Fulton

As a 2020 second-round pick with some impressive NFL tape, Kristian Fulton was set up to cash in if he put together a good campaign in 2023. He didn’t. He gave up the worst passer rating of his career (114.1) and was eventually benched.

Still, there’s some upside to signing a former second-round pick to a one-year “prove-it” deal and potentially reaping the benefits.

Potential Dream Signing: QB Russell Wilson

Ask New England Patriots fans what it’s like to stick with a young quarterback who just isn’t the answer. If the Steelers don’t come away with a legitimate alternative to Kenny Pickett, the fans could be stuck watching a Mac Jones situation unfold in Pittsburgh.

Patience is a virtue, but Pickett just hasn’t done enough in his first two seasons to be the unquestioned starter in 2024.

The Steelers don’t have a great draft position to get a quarterback or the cap space to chase Kirk Cousins. That leaves Russell Wilson, who could play for the vet minimum and still be making piles of money from the Broncos, as a logical fit.

Overview

The Steelers have typically been a conservative team when it comes to free agency, but Omar Khan shook things up a bit in his first offseason as general manager last year. The Steelers were an active force inking Larry Ogunjobi, Patrick Peterson and Isaac Seumalo along with a few linebackers.

The Steelers aren’t flush with cash, so this year’s free-agent haul might be a little more tame, but it wouldn’t be surprising to see Khan try to find a few more starters with their cap dollars.

The big position to watch is quarterback. Pickett should enter Year 3 with something to prove, but they should also be on the lookout for some competition, even if they miss out on Wilson.

San Francisco 49ers28 of 32

49ers general manager John LynchStacy Revere/Getty Images

Updated Salary Cap-Space: minus-$3.4 million

Top Pending Free Agents: LB Oren Burks, S Tashaun Gipson, WR Jauan Jennings, DL Javon Kinlaw, EDGE Chase Young

Potential Trade Assets: WR Brandon Aiyuk, LB Dre Greenlaw, OT Colton McKivitz

Potential Trade Targets: OT Morgan Moses, CB Patrick Surtain II, CB L’Jarius Sneed

Biggest Positions of Need: Guard, Defensive Line, Cornerback

Potential Signing 1: G Laken Tomlinson

The San Francisco 49ers’ Super Bowl window is open, and the roster doesn’t feature a lot of glaring needs. However, San Francisco could use help on the right side of its offensive line.

Both right tackle Colton McKivitz and right guard Spencer Burford were inconsistent in 2023, and backups Jon Feliciano and Matt Pryor are scheduled to be free agents.

Making a run at former 49ers guard Laken Tomlinson would be logical. Recently released by the Jets, Tomlinson isn’t an elite guard, but he knows the offense and he’s durable. Tomlinson has started every game in each of the last six seasons. He was also a Pro Bowler for the 49ers in 2021.

Potential Signing 2: DT Grover Stewart

Defensively, the 49ers could use help up front. Javon Kinlaw is slated to be a free agent, and the defense struggled to consistently defend the run last season.

The 49ers ranked 14th in yards per carry allowed and surrendered more than 100 rushing yards in all three rushing contest. Bolstering the front would go a long way toward giving San Francisco a complete defense.

Colts defensive tackle Grover Stewart is a vastly underrated run defender who would be a force in a rotation with Javon Hargrave and Arik Armstead.

Potential Dream Signing: CB Kendall Fuller

While San Francisco’s defense was mostly good last season, it wasn’t good enough to finish off the Chiefs in the Super Bowl. Containing Patrick Mahomes for four full quarters—or five, in the case of Super Bowl LVIII—is always difficult, but the 49ers might have found success with just a little more talent on the perimeter.

It’s worth noting that the 49ers also struggled to contain quarterbacks Joe Burrow, Lamar Jackson and Kirk Cousins during the regular season. They did, however, try to remedy the situation.

San Francisco was “checking in on” both Patrick Surtain II and Jaylon Johnson ahead of the 2023 trade deadline, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

Obviously, the 49ers didn’t land one of their top trade targets, but they should target a top free-agent corner like Fuller now.

Overview

General manager John Lynch needs to generate more cap space if he hopes to pursue some of this year’s top free agents. One potential solution could be an extension for wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk.

Aiyuk is entering the final year of his rookie contract and is slated to carry a $14.1 million cap hit.

Lynch must also make a decision on pass-rusher Chase Young, who was acquired from the Washington Commanders for a third-round pick at the trade deadline. Young largely disappointed after landing in San Francisco, but he did flash during the Super Bowl.

The good news is that the 49ers have a Super Bowl roster and don’t have a plethora of holes to address. Fans can probably expect San Francisco to push for one marquee player in free agency before turning to potential budget options like cornerback Rock Ya-Sin or guard Michael Dunn in the second and third waves.

Seattle Seahawks29 of 32

Seahawks head coach Mike MacdonaldSteph Chambers/Getty Images

Updated Salary-Cap Space: $44.2 million

Top Pending Free Agents: LB Jordyn Brooks, C Evan Brown, TE Noah Fant, LB Bobby Wagner, DL Leonard Williams

Potential Trade Assets: WR Tyler Lockett, WR Dee Eskridge, First-Round Pick

Potential Trade Targets: LB C.J. Mosley, G Ben Cleveland, Early First-Round Pick

Biggest Positions of Need: Guard, Linebacker, Future QB

Potential Signing 1: C Andre James

The Seattle Seahawks have their new head coach in former Ravens defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald. Presumably, Macdonald will figure out how to get more out of a defensive roster that finished 2023 ranked 30th overall and 25th in points allowed.

Offensively, Seattle’s biggest liability resides on the interior of the offensive line. The interior wasn’t great in 2023. While it wasn’t a complete liability in pass protection—Seattle allowed 38 sacks—it had issues in the ground game.

Seattle ranked a middling 16th in yards per carry despite having a talented pair of running backs in Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet.

Perhaps more importantly, however, Seattle could lose center Evan Brown, guard Damien Lewis and guard Phil Haynes in free agency. Las Vegas’ Andre James is arguably the top pure center on the 2024 market, and the Seahawks would be wise to pursue him.

Potential Signing 2: G Kevin Zeitler

Guard Kevin Zeitler is a logical target for the Seahawks, and not simply because of the Ravens connection he shares with Macdonald.

Zeitler is a seasoned veteran who continues to play at a high level at 33 years old. He made 15 starts for Baltimore in 2023 and earned his first career Pro Bowl nod in the process.

Seattle needs to find more consistency in its ground game, and Zeitler can help provide it.

Potential Dream Signing: LB Patrick Queen

Seattle could use a fairly substantial overhaul defensively, but it really needs help at the second level. The Seahakwks invested in their defensive front last offseason, adding the likes of Jarran Reed and Dre’Mont Jones, but it still finished the year ranked 27th in yards allowed per carry.

Linebacker Patrick Queen would provide an immediate boost to Seattle’s run defense, and his experience playing under Macdonald would be a huge benefit. Not only could Queen help install the system as Seattle’s new defensive “field commander,” but Macdonald also knows how to get the most out of the 24-year-old.

With linebackers Jordyn Brooks, Bobby Wagner and Devin Bush scheduled to become free agents, linebacker isn’t a position that Seattle can ignore.

Queen is the top off-ball linebacker slated to be available this offseason.

Overview

While Seattle parted with head coach Pete Carroll this offseason, general manager John Schneider remains in place. He’ll have a few challenges this offseason, and one of them may involve finding a new quarterback.

Geno Smith was more than serviceable last season, but he regressed a bit after his breakout 2022 campaign. Smith is also 33 years old and could be a potential cap casualty in 2025. If the Seahawks choose to release Smith before the final year of his contract, they could save $25 million in 2025 cap space.

Because of Seattle’s cap situation, though, Schneider isn’t likely to target a top quarterback in free agency. Expect the Seahawks to focus primarily on the offensive line and defense early and to target second-tier free agents like linebacker Kyle Van Noy and linebacker Nicholas Morrow during the second and third waves.

If the Seahawks decide to find their quarterback of the future this offseason, they’ll do so in April’s draft. However, retaining backup Drew Lock might be a priority, given his experience with the roster.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers30 of 32

Buccaneers head coach Todd BowlesStacy Revere/Getty Images

Updated Salary-Cap Space: $22.5 million

Top Pending Free Agents: LB Lavonte David, QB Baker Mayfield, LB Devin White,, S Ryan Neal, G Aaron Stinnie

Potential Trade Assets: CB Carlton Davis, CB Jamel Dean, WR Chris Godwin

Potential Trade Targets: C Bradley Bozeman, CB L’Jarius Sneed, CB Charvarius Ward

Biggest Positions of Need: Cornerback, Center, LB

Potential Signing 1: LB Patrick Queen

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers surprised plenty of folks in 2023 by winning the NFC South even after losing quarterback Tom Brady to retirement. However, Tampa has several key players slated to hit free agency, and replacing them will likely be a top priority.

The Bucs will be in the linebacker market with both Lavonte David and Devin White scheduled to hit free agency. If the Buccaneers find themselves needing to replace one or both of them, Patrick Queen would be a logical choice.

Queen can do it all as an off-ball linebacker, and he’s one of the best defenders at any position set to be available this offseason.

Potential Signing 2: G/C Max Garcia

Tampa will be in the center market, as longtime starter Ryan Jensen announced his retirement in February. Jensen hadn’t appeared in a game since suffering a significant knee injury prior to the 2022 season, and now, the Bucs know that he won’t be back.

Robert Hainsey started at the position last season and left plenty to be desired. He was responsible for nine penalties and four sacks allowed, according to Pro Football Focus.

Saints guard/center Max Garcia would be a sensible addition for the Buccaneers for two reasons. For one, the 32-year-old can provide depth at multiple positions. Secondly, he spent last season under new Buccaneers offensive line coach Kevin Carberry.

Potential Dream Signing: CB Kendall Fuller

While the Buccaneers are busy figuring out how to keep the band together, they should also look to upgrade their secondary. The Bucs ranked 25th in net yards allowed per pass attempt and 29th in passing yards allowed last season.

While Tampa gave the Lions a fight in the divisional round, its inability to contain Jared Goff and the Detroit passing attack ended its playoff run.

Adding a proven corner like Washington’s Kendall Fuller would be a dream for the Buccaneers. They’ll still need to address the futures of safeties Ryan Neal and Antoine Winfield Jr. (who received the franchise tag), but having a top cover man on the perimeter would help tremendously.

If Tampa can’t land a top corner early in free agency, expect it to heavily consider budget alternatives like Adoree’ Jackson and former Buc Sean Murphy-Bunting.

Overview

The biggest challenge for head coach Todd Bowles and general manager Jason Licht this offseason will be player retention. Tampa already worked out a new deal for star wideout Mike Evans, but players like White, Winfield and quarterback Baker Mayfield remain in limbo.

Mayfield proved he could be an above-average starter for the Bucs, and he might just be the team’s long-term answer under center. With Evans under contract, he likely becomes the team’s top priority.

And if Mayfield isn’t retained, Tampa will have a massive hole to fill in free agency and/or the draft.

The Buccaneers have quite a bit of cap space with which to operate, but that doesn’t mean they’ll take a lot of swings at external free agents this offseason. Retaining their own will likely take precedence—and will likely cut into the team’s financial flexibility.

The Bucs may still pursue a marquee player or two when free agency opens, but they’re likely to be much more active after the initial frenzy has quieted.

Tennessee Titans31 of 32

Titans general manager Ran CarthonNick Cammett/Diamond Images via Getty Images

Updated Salary-Cap Space: $80.7 million

Top Pending Free Agents: C Aaron Brewer, LB Azeez Al-Shaair, DL Denico Autry, CB Sean Murphy-Bunting, QB Ryan Tannehill

Potential Trade Assets: No. 7 Pick, WR DeAndre Hopkins, OT Andre Dillard

Potential Trade Targets: Day 1 and 2 Draft Picks, OT Garrett Bolles, OT Cam Robinson

Biggest Positions of Need: Offensive Tackle, EDGE, Wide Receiver

Potential Signing 1: OT Mekhi Becton

The Titans swung and missed on Andre Dillard in free agency last season. They gave him a three-year contract worth $29 million despite his struggles in Philadelphia and would likely take it back if they could. Becton isn’t likely to command that kind of deal. The Titans now have Bill Callahan as their offensive line coach. He’s one of the best in the business and would be the right coach to potentially salvage Becton’s injury-plagued career.

Potential Signing 2: S Geno Stone

The Titans couldn’t quite get their safety room figured out last season. They traded Kevin Byard at the trade deadline but should be on the lookout for at least one new starter there. Geno Stone enjoyed a breakout season with Dennard Wilson serving as his defensive backs coach in Baltimore.

Now that Wilson is the defensive coordinator in Tennessee, he could bolt to the Titans and keep the positive momentum going.

Potential Dream Signing: EDGE Jonathan Greenard

The Titans should be especially attuned to free agents who are 27 or younger. They could play out an entire three-year contract without getting to the wrong side of 30 and are still squarely in their prime. With Brian Callahan taking over as head coach, the Titans are likely on a multi-year timetable before there are real expectations to win.

Jonathan Greenard is an ideal target. The 27-year-old would give them another answer at an important position. They signed Arden Key last season, but he’s a bit one-dimensional. He can get after the passer, but he can be weak against the run.

Greenard is more well-rounded and is coming off a highly productive campaign. He racked up a career-high 12.5 sacks and a pressure percentage of 13.3 percent.

The fact that they’d be poaching a talented player from a division rival is just a bonus.

Overview

The Titans head into free agency with a whole lot of needs and a bunch of money to spend. While that’s a better situation than being a rebuilding team with no cap space, the Titans still need to tread carefully.

They had a good amount of money last offseason, but their two biggest investments were DeAndre Hopkins and Dillard. Hopkins was integral to a bad passing attack, but Dillard was benched by the end of the season.

Both serve as cautionary tales that the Titans’ money still needs to be spent wisely. Finding weapons for quarterback Will Levis is important, but it’s even more important to make sure they are targeting younger players who can be a part of the rebuild.

Washington Commanders32 of 32

New Commanders head coach Dan Quinn, managing partner Josh Harris and general manager Adam PetersJess Rapfogel/Getty Images

Updated Salary-Cap Space: $96.1 million

Top Pending Free Agents: LB Cody Barton, OL Saahdiq Charles, S Kamren Curl, CB Kendall Fuller, WR Curtis Samuel

Potential Trade Assets: QB Sam Howell, WR Dyami Brown, First-Round Pick

Potential Trade Targets: EDGE Matthew Judon, CB Charvarius Ward, CB L’Jarius Sneed

Biggest Positions of Need: Quarterback, EDGE, Guard

Potential Signing 1: QB Tyrod Taylor

The Washington Commanders are set to usher in a new era this offseason with a new ownership group and a new head coach in former Cowboys defensive coordinator Dan Quinn.

Presumably, the Commanders will add a new franchise quarterback in 2024 too. Washington is armed with the second overall pick, a selection that could (and likely will) be used on a top QB prospect like North Carolina’s Drake Maye or LSU’s Jayden Daniels.

Retaining journeyman backup Jacoby Brissett as a mentor would make plenty of sense, as third-year quarterback Sam Howell may be none too keen on being replaced—and that’s assuming Washington doesn’t simply trade Howell for a clean break.

If Brissett isn’t back, Tyrod Taylor of the rival Giants would be a very sensible replacement.

Potential Signing 2: G Robert Hunt

Regardless of what the Commanders do at quarterback, they have to improve their offensive line. Washington allowed a whopping 65 sacks in 2023, which certainly didn’t do Howell any favors.

Washington was particularly vulnerable on the offensive interior, and it could lose center Tyler Larsen and guard Saahdiq Charles in free agency.

Bolstering the interior line should be one of Washington’s first priorities in free agency, and Dolphins guard Robert Hunt is one of the best linemen at any position headed to market. The Commanders have the cap space to sign him, and they could.

Potential Dream Signing: CB Stephon Gilmore

Defensively, the Commanders have needs all over the place. They finished 2023 ranked 27th against the run, 32nd against the pass, 32nd in yards allowed and 32nd in points allowed.

The 2024 free-agent market is deep with pass-rushers, but if the Commanders were interested in doling out a hefty pass-rushing contract, they wouldn’t have traded Chase Young and Montez Sweat at least year’s deadline.

However, Washington has to add cornerback help, especially with Kendall Fuller slated to hit the market. Adding Stephon Gilmore from the rival Cowboys would make a ton of sense, both because he’s a quality starter and because he’s an experienced leader who could help in the locker room.

This Commanders team isn’t accustomed to success, and Gilmore, a former Defensive Player of the Year and one-time Super Bowl champ, can help show Washington how to win.

Overview

Quinn and new general manager Adam Peters face the task of rebuilding almost an entire roster this offseason. Washington is relatively set at wide receiver and along the defensive line, but most other positions can stand to be upgraded.

The bad news is that turning things completely around in one offseason will be difficult unless Washington absolutely nails its choice of a new quarterback. We saw the Texans flip the script with C.J. Stroud in 2023, and Washington could follow suit with the right QB selection.

Make no mistake: Washington’s single biggest decision this offseason will come at quarterback, but the chance for improvement at other positions is very real. No team is sitting on more cap space than the Commanders, who can bolster a lot of areas in free agency before focusing on their quarterback choice in the draft.

Expect Washington to be very active early, often and throughout free agency in 2024.