The legal tampering period is almost one week old, but there are still plenty of intriguing free agents around the league. While several big-name players have already found new homes, a few established stars are taking their time to find the right fit to increase their odds of success in 2024 and beyond.
With every team now in compliance with the salary cap and no team having a perfect roster, every organization should be at least passively interested in some of the top remaining free agents. While they could sign anywhere, the following landing spots make the most sense.
Top Remaining Free Agents, Ideal Landings Spots
Chase Young
Former second-overall pick Chase Young is perhaps the best edge defender of the remaining free agents. When motivated, the Ohio State product looks like one of the best pass rushers in the game, capable of speeding past tackles and overpowering them with strength. Unfortunately, he’s not the most consistent player and clearly took plays off during San Francisco’s playoff run. He’s the perfect candidate for a one-year, prove-it contract, and he’d be a great fit for the Carolina Panthers.
Mike Williams
Mike Williams has some injury concerns, but the 6′-4″, 218-pound wideout has rare size and knows how to use it in contested situations. While he shouldn’t be the top option in any passing attack, he’s a great second option for a contending team like the New York Jets who need another reliable set of hands.
Justin Simmons
Justin Simmons is not only the top safety of the remaining free agents, but there is a case to be made that he was the best safety around even at the start of the legal tampering period. After refusing to take a pay cut with the Denver Broncos, the two-time Pro Bowler seems to be holding out for the best contract. The Buffalo Bills don’t have the cap space to lavishly spend on the safety position, but they do need another starter.
Trent Brown
When motivated, Trent Brown is one of the better offensive tackles in football. Blessed with immense size and strength, he’s easily the best of the remaining free agents now that Jonah Williams and Tyron Smith have new homes. Effort concerns are an issue following his unceremonious departure from New England, but a team like the New Orleans Saints would be wise to offer the former Pro Bowler a one-year contract.
Jadeveon Clowney
After spending his early years with the Houston Texans, former first-round pick Jadeveon Clowney has been something of a nomadic pass rusher over the past few years, jumping from team to team on a series of one-year deals. While he is one of the best remaining free agents at his position, he should consider a return to Baltimore. This team needs an experienced pass rusher, and the Ravens scheme brings out the best in the South Carolina prospect.
Xavien Howard
It is a foregone conclusion that the Chiefs are going to trade L’Jarius Sneed. While it might not happen today, it will happen at some point before the start of the 2024 NFL Draft. Kansas City has one of the most talented defenses in football, but they’ll need another starting-caliber cornerback. Xavien Howard is one of the best remaining free agent defensive backs out there, and the former All-Pro should love the opportunity to chase a ring with Patrick Mahomes and company.
Main Photo: Mark J. Rebilas – USA Today Sports
