The first two days of NFL free agency did not disappoint. It was one of the busiest starts in recent memory, with several big names leaving. The biggest moves include Kirk Cousins to the Atlanta Falcons, Saquon Barkley to the Philadelphia Eagles, Brian Barnes to the New York Giants, and Josh Jacobs and Xavier McKinnie to Green Bay. – Transfer to the Packers and trade of Derrick Henry to Baltimore Ravens.
Some of Pete Prisco’s top 100 free agents remain unsigned after the legal tampering period ends. As the new league year approaches, which team will be the first to advance?
1. Kendall Fuller (CB
Fuller is the finest cornerback available, having allowed six passing touchdowns and an 84.6 passer rating in coverage last season. Of course, Fuller played for the NFL’s worst pass defense last year.
Fuller is an effective cornerback due to his strong pass rush. As proven by his 60.8 passer rating in coverage the previous season (when both Daron Payne and Montez Sweat were on the Commanders defensive line).
2. Tyron Smith (OT)
The two-time first-team All-Pro and eight-time Pro Bowler is a free agent at age 33 and has played 37 of 67 games in four seasons. He has a history of missing games. When healthy, Smith is dominant. He has allowed just four sacks in those 37 games.
If Smith can stay on the field, he’ll be a huge steal.
3. Kamren Curl (S)
One of the most underrated players in free agency, Curl has allowed three passing touchdowns over the past few seasons against a weak Commanders defense. Like Fuller, his 88.7 passer rating is deceptive in coverage.
Curl hasn’t had an interception since 2020, but he has recorded more than 80 tackles in each of his four seasons, including 115 last year.
4. Chase Young(EDGE)
Young is coming off a season in which he recorded 7.5 sacks and 15 quarterback hits with the Commanders and 49ers. Although Young didn’t make an impression with the 49ers after being moved there, he won’t turn 25 until April.
If Young recovers from his knee injury, he’s an intriguing signing. The 49ers might have moved on after signing Leonard Floyd.
5. Stephon Gilmore(CB)
Gilmore, 33, has 68 tackles, 13 passes defended, and two interceptions for the Cowboys last season. He only allowed four throwing touchdowns and had a 60.3 passer rating when targeted.
It will be interesting to see where Gilmore ends up, given his age and ability to still play.
6. Jadeveon Clowney(EDGE)
The veteran pass rusher finished second on the Ravens with 9.5 sacks, matching his career high. The Ravens are purportedly eager in getting him back, but Clowney played at a lower pace last season, so the two sides must bridge that gap.
7. Trent Brown(OT)
Last season, the 30-year-old dealt with a variety of injuries and only started eight games. He has spent the last three seasons with the Patriots.
8. Marquise Brown(WR)
The 2019 first-round pick is available after spending his first three seasons with the Ravens and the last two with Arizona.
9. Kevin Zeitler(G)
The 34-year-old Zeitler, who made his first Pro Bowl this season, has expressed a desire to stay with the Ravens.
10. DJ Reader (NT)
The eight-year veteran is regarded as one of the best nose tackles in the league. He was the Bengals’ No. 11 interior defender overall last season, according to Pro Football Focus.