2021 NFL free agency features over a dozen superstars that could transform franchises.
The start of NFL free agency is one of the most anticipated times during the league’s offseason. While the 2020 offseason featured several league-altering free agent signings, including Tom Brady joining the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the 2021 free agency class boasts even more Pro Bowlers and All-Pros. This article counts down the top 70 projected free agents for next offseason.
Current free agents are not included in this article because we don’t know what kind of contracts they might sign. That leaves incredibly talented players like Antonio Brown, Jadeveon Clowney, and Everson Griffen out of contention.
Several worthy candidates didn’t make the top 70 free agents. Seattle’s Greg Olsen received a lot of consideration, but he’ll probably retire and get into the announcing game after this coming season. Centers David Andrews and Mike Pouncey also came up in conversations, but the two linemen have questionable injury histories. The same goes for Carolina’s Russell Okung.
While several of these players could sign extensions or retire before next year, these are the top 70 projected free agents in 2021.
70. Keanu Neal, S, Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons selected Neal with the 17th overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft. The Florida product performed well as a rookie and even made the Pro Bowl during his second season. Then the injuries began setting in. Neal tore his ACL in 2018 and suffered an Achilles injury last season. He’s played in four games over the past two years.
Once expected to form the core of Atlanta’s defense, along with Grady Jarrett and Deion Jones, Neal is in the final year of his rookie contract. The 24-year-old can still turn his career around, but he’s a massive gamble in free agency.
69. James Conner, RB, Pittsburgh Steelers
Speaking of gambles, Conner is also in the final year of his rookie deal. The former third-round pick beat stage two Hodgkin’s lymphoma in college after winning the ACC Player of the Year award in 2014. The Steelers kept him in Pennsylvania in 2017 and used Conner as Le’Veon Bell’s backup. However, Conner took over a major role on the team’s offense when Bell held out.
Conner made the Pro Bowl in 2017, gaining 1,470 yards from scrimmage and 13 total touchdowns in only 13 games. However, the young running back didn’t have much success this past season. While he still squeaked out 4.0 yards per carry, Conner only ran for 46.4 yards per game. He missed six weeks and left midway through some contests with injuries.
Over the offseason, Conner rebuilt his body in the gym. Even if he can’t perform at a Pro Bowl level every season, Conner wants to prove he isn’t injury-prone and can fill a starting role.
68. Cam Newton, QB, New England Patriots
When I initially assembled a list of names for this article, I didn’t even consider Newton. Coming off a year where he missed 14 games, the former MVP signed a one-year deal with the Patriots. Surpassingly, Newton didn’t attract more attention in free agency, which pushed him into signing a cheap contract with New England.
Before starting 0-2 and then sitting out the final 14 weeks of the 2019 season, Newton put together arguably the second-best year of his career in 2018. He completed over 65% of his pass attempts for the first time and carried the Carolina Panthers to a 6-2 record in the team’s first eight games. If Newton returns to that form this season, he should get another starting job in 2021.
Of course, there’s always the chance Newton flops in New England. He’s the definition of a hit-or-miss player, but I still believe he can be a productive NFL quarterback.
67. Larry Fitzgerald, WR, Arizona Cardinals
While his current contract ends after the upcoming season, Fitzgerald might not hit free agency. The soon-to-be 37-year-old is a prime retirement candidate. Even if he decides to play another season, the Cardinals won’t tolerate seeing Fitzgerald in a uniform other than their own.
This offseason, Fitzgerald signed his fourth one-year extension since the start of 2016. His current deal is for $11.5 million, which is slightly more than what he received in previous years. Fitzgerald produced 75 receptions for 804 yards and four touchdowns last season. With DeAndre Hopkins joining the team and Christian Kirk improving, Fitzgerald’s totals should decrease this year.
Originally the third overall pick in 2004, Fitzgerald has given Arizona everything he possibly could. Fans should enjoy watching him play this year. They might never get another chance.
66. Matt Breida, RB, Miami Dolphins
Breida peaked in 2018 when he led the San Francisco 49ers in all significant rushing categories. While he still performed efficiently this past season, Breida took a back seat to Raheem Mostert. Perhaps that’s why the 49ers felt comfortable trading the former undrafted free agent to Miami for a fifth-round pick.
Miami’s backfield features two backs who played rotational roles in 2019. There’s Breida and Jordan Howard. Howard made the Pro Bowl in 2016, but he’s begun slipping over the past two seasons. Based on his performance with the 49ers, Breida should become Miami’s starting back.
65. JuJu Smith-Schuster, WR, Pittsburgh Steelers
A second-round pick in 2017 by the Steelers, Smith-Schuster is in his rookie contract’s final year. The USC product thrived during his first two seasons in the NFL, but injuries and poor quarterback play brought the electric receiver crashing back to earth in 2019. Smith-Schuster faces a lot of pressure this coming season.
In 2018, Smith-Schuster thrived alongside Antonio Brown. He made 111 receptions for 1,426 yards and seven touchdowns on his way to a Pro Bowl selection. Even as a rookie, Smith-Schuster caught 58 passes for 917 yards and seven touchdowns. Unfortunately, his production plummeted to 42 receptions for 552 yards and three touchdowns in 12 games this past season.
While quarterback play deserves a lot of the blame for Smith-Schuster’s struggles, the 23-year-old also flashed some of his flaws. Without Brown drawing double coverage, Smith-Schuster had trouble creating separation against some of the league’s top defensive backs. We’ll see if he can perform like a true top receiving option when Ben Roethlisberger returns this year.
64. Malik Hooker, S, Indianapolis Colts
In a strange move, the Colts declined the fifth-year option on Hooker’s rookie deal, making the former 15th overall pick a free agent in 2021. Labeled an athletic, ball-hawking safety at Ohio State, Hooker started 27 games over the past two seasons for Indianapolis. However, the 24-year-old never reached his full potential.
The Colts don’t have a stable secondary right now, making their decision to let Hooker walk after four years confusing. He isn’t a superstar, but Hooker is still an above-average safety with Pro Bowl potential.
Hooker intercepted seven passes during his 33 games with Indianapolis.
63. Poona Ford, DT (RFA), Seattle Seahawks
Ford went undrafted in 2018 and signed with the Seahawks. By the second half of the season, Pete Carroll realized he’d found a diamond in the rough. An undersized, space-eating defensive tackle, Ford won a starting job along the line this past season.
Because he tends to play the running game and not rush the passer, Ford will never become a superstar. However, he’s an excellent complement for a pass rush orientated defensive tackle like Jarran Reed. Ford is entering the final season of a three-year deal with Seattle. He’ll make less than $800 thousand this season.
Ford is a restricted free agent in 2021, meaning the Seahawks have a strong chance of re-signing him. Teams can apply a tender to restricted free agents with a designated draft pick attached. Other teams can negotiate with the free agent and submit offers, but the original team can match offer sheets. If the original team doesn’t match an offer, the new team must trade a draft pick in the designated round to original the organization.
62. Leonard Williams, DE (Franchise Tag), New York Giants
When the New York Jets selected Williams with the sixth overall pick in 2015, they believed he could become a generational defensive end. At first, Williams flashed potential. He made the Pro Bowl in only his second season and played a balanced game. However, things unraveled from there.
While Williams continued contributing quarterback hits, his sacks, tackles, and tackles for loss all decreased rapidly during his third season. Last year, the Jets traded Williams to the Giants for draft picks. The move came as a surprise, seeing as Williams was already halfway through his rookie deal’s final season.
While he didn’t do anything overly impressive with the Giants, New York franchise-tagged Williams this offseason. The team owes him slightly over $16 million this year.
61. Melvin Ingram, DE/OLB, Los Angeles Chargers
In 2017, Ingram signed a four-year, $64 million extension. The former 18th overall pick made the Pro Bowl in each of the past three seasons and formed a dynamic pass-rushing duo with Joey Bosa. While he isn’t an elite pass rusher, Ingram accomplished a lot with the Chargers since joining the organization in 2012.
Ingram is fourth in Chargers franchise history in sacks with 49. Most of those sacks came during the past five years. During that stretch, Ingram produced 43 sacks, 92 quarterback hits and 10 forced fumbles in 77 games. While the Chargers want to keep the 31-year-old pass rusher around when his contract expires, that might not be possible.
60. Ryan Kerrigan, DE/OLB, Washington Football Team
Washington used the 16th overall pick on Kerrigan in 2011. That’s the same draft that produced other star pass rushers like Justin Houston, Cameron Jordan, Von Miller, Robert Quinn, and J.J. Watt. Kerrigan’s 90 career sacks rank third amongst this class of legendary sack artists, only trailing Miller and Watt. Unfortunately, the Purdue product began showing some rust last year.
In 2019, Kerrigan set career-lows with 5.5 sacks, one forced fumble, and 25 tackles. He also only registered 14 quarterback hits. As Kerrigan nears his 32nd birthday, fans wonder how much longer he can compete at a Pro Bowl level.
Washington added quite a few players to their defensive front in recent drafts, meaning this is likely Kerrigan’s final season with the franchise. Kerrigan’s 90 sacks are second in franchise history, only trailing Dexter Manley’s 91. Sacks became an official stat in 1982.
59. Zach Cunningham, ILB, Houston Texans
A second-round selection from 2017, Cunningham is in the final year of his rookie contract. The Vanderbilt product hasn’t made the Pro Bowl like fellow Texans inside linebacker Benardrick McKinney, but Cunningham is arguably the better player. Cunningham makes plays all over the field and is coming off his best season in the NFL.
Free agency should treat Cunningham kindly. Houston gave McKinney a five-year, $50 million extension in 2018. That puts Cunningham in line to make between $12-14 million annually on his new deal. However, the 25-year-old might have to switch teams if he wants a massive payday.
The Texans already committed a larger percentage of their cap to other players over the past three years. Also, the team needs to get started on signing Deshaun Watson to an extension. With so little cap space available next year, Cunningham should hit the open market. The franchise tag is Houston’s best chance at keeping its star linebacker.
58. Bud Dupree, OLB (Franchise Tag), Pittsburgh Steelers
Teams continue eyeing Dupree with suspicion. The former 22nd overall pick put up mediocre numbers during his first four seasons, but he put together a breakout campaign in 2019. In a contract year, Dupree produced career-highs with 11.5 sacks, 17 quarterback hits, four forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and 68 tackles.
Wanting to keep their dynamic trio of Dupree, Cameron Heyward, and T.J. Watt together, the Steelers used their franchise tag on Dupree. Pittsburgh owes the 2015 first-round pick $15.828 million this season. While the team brought Dupree back for another run at the playoffs, the Steelers can’t afford to pay him beyond this coming season, especially if he repeats his 2019 performance.
57. Ndamukong Suh, DT, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Suh signed the third consecutive one-year deal of his career this offseason, agreeing to an $8 million contract with the Buccaneers. The former three-time First-Team All-Pro is several years past his prime, but Suh still offers a lot. Even if he’s not the primary wrecking ball, Suh creates opportunities for his teammates.
In 2018, he teamed up with Aaron Donald, and the younger defensive tackle had the best season of his career. This past year, Suh elevated Vita Vea and Tampa Bay’s defensive front. The Buccaneers only allowed 73.8 rushing yards per game last season and even shut down Christian McCaffrey twice.
Even at 33 years old, Suh can still play a significant role against the running game. If he decides to play a 12th season in 2021, he should still attract many suitors.
56. Ryan Kelly, C, Indianapolis Colts
The Colts selected Kelly with the 18th overall pick in 2016. Picking up the Alabama product’s fifth-year option was a no-brainer after he anchored the center of a tremendous offensive line for the past four years. While he’s never made an All-Pro team, Kelly did earn a Pro Bowl selection in 2019.
Indianapolis hopes Kelly can stay healthy in 2020. The 27-year-old missed four games in 2018 and nine games in 2017. Luckily, the Colts have plenty of cap space next offseason to re-sign their crucial starters. Kelly should receive a new contract worth over $10 million annually.
55. Jared Cook, TE, New Orleans Saints
Cook made his second consecutive Pro Bowl this past season. Starting in 2017, the veteran tight end put together the best three-year stretch of his career. During that time, Cook amassed 165 receptions for 2,289 yards and 17 touchdowns. However, he’ll turn 34 next year, which prevents him from climbing higher on this list.
Even as he ages, Cook can remain one of the best tight ends in football. Playing with Drew Brees helped the veteran tight end keep his production up this past season. There are plenty of teams that need a security blanket that’s as reliable as Cook. So, even on the backend of his career, Cook always has a free agent market.
54. James White, RB, New England Patriots
Some fans might be surprised to see White this far up the list. However, White is one of the best receiving backs in the NFL. With so many offenses transitioning to running back by committee game plans, White’s free agency stock is near an all-time high. So long as he remains consistent without Tom Brady, White should sign the largest contract of his career next offseason.
Over the past two years, White didn’t produce much in the running game. He only carried the ball 161 times for 688 yards and six touchdowns. Those are hardly impressive totals. White’s real contributions came in the passing game, where he regularly elevated Brady’s completion percentage and provided an easy outlet.
Between 2018 and 2019, White made 159 receptions for 1,396 yards and 12 touchdowns. That brings his totals from the last two seasons to 2,084 yards from scrimmage and 18 total touchdowns. Putting White at 54th is possibly a little extreme, but he could thrive in almost any team’s offense.
53. Dont’a Hightower, ILB, New England Patriots
Hightower joined the Patriots as a first-round pick in 2012. He made the Pro Bowl in 2016 and made his second career appearance this past season. A versatile linebacker capable of making plays all over the field, Hightower experienced a lot of success with New England. However, can he maintain his production outside of the team’s scheme?
New England’s linebackers have a history of leaving the team and struggling in their new homes. Perhaps that’ll motivate Hightower to reach an extension with the Patriots, but Bill Belichick’s team could also move on from the 30-year-old defender.
52. Taylor Moton, RT, Carolina Panthers
Moton is in the final season of his rookie contract. Carolina took a chance on the Western Michigan product with a second-round pick in 2017. The gamble paid off, and Moton became the team’s starting right tackle in his second season. Moton has never missed a game and hasn’t missed a start over the past two years.
Pro Football Focus (subscription required) even listed Moton as one of the league’s young offensive players who deserves an early contract extension. Moton flies under the radar because he plays an unpopular position on a bad team, but the 25-year-old is one of the best tackles in the game today.
51. Kenyan Drake, RB (Transition Tag), Arizona Cardinals
Last year, the Cardinals acquired Drake for the low cost of a conditional 2020 sixth-round draft pick. After a disappointing first half of the season with the Miami Dolphins, Drake turned the year, and possibly his entire career, around. The Alabama product averaged 5.2 yards per carry and 80.4 yards per game with the Cardinals.
Arizona didn’t want to lose its investment, especially after they traded away David Johnson, so the Cardinals used the transition tag on Drake. The transition tag is a one-year deal, similar to the franchise tag, except it’s cheaper and allows the original team to match any offer sheet their free agent signs.
If Drake manages to carry his production from last year into 2020, he could make a lot of money in free agency. The transition tag only gives Drake $8.483 million this year. He could sign a deal worth around $10 million annually if he plays well.
50. Rob Gronkowski, TE, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
After a year away from football, Gronkowski announced his return once Tom Brady signed with the Buccaneers. Tampa Bay then orchestrated a trade with New England to reunite Brady and the dominant tight end. At 31 years old and coming off a season spent in retirement, I’m not sure what we can expect from Gronkowski this season.
Gronkowski joins a team that already features Cameron Brate and O.J. Howard at tight end. Throw in Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, and you’re looking at some incredible firepower. However, that also raises the question about what Gronkowski’s role on this dominant unit is. Should we expect another Pro Bowl season, or is he playing on a snap count?
There’s always a chance Gronkowski retires again following this coming season. I don’t think he wants to play with anyone other than Brady. There’s also the chance he signs a cheaper, one-year deal to remain in Tampa Bay.
While Gronkowski’s previous accomplishments assert that he deserves a higher ranking, there are too many unanswered questions with the future Hall of Fame tight end.
49. Phillip Lindsay, RB (RFA), Denver Broncos
Lindsay went undrafted out of Colorado in 2018, and the Broncos signed him to a three-year deal. Despite making the Pro Bowl as a rookie and rushing for 2,048 yards and 16 touchdowns during his first two seasons, Lindsay only makes $755 thousand this season. He might not have a big year either, considering the team signed Melvin Gordon to a two-year deal worth $16 million.
Ordinarily, teams love finding undrafted gems and fight to keep them around. However, the Broncos might not match the offer sheet Lindsay signs next offseason. The 26-year-old running back deserves a massive pay raise, and the Broncos seem committed to Gordon.
With Royce Freeman under contract through the 2021 season, Denver has depth at running back. That makes it highly unlikely the Broncos spend any serious money on Lindsay next year. Some teams probably view the Colorado product as a valuable starter and will treat him better than head coach Vic Fangio.
48. Alejandro Villanueva, LT, Pittsburgh Steelers
Part of a stacked free agency class of offensive tackles, Villanueva is a quality starter that the Steelers might not have enough money to re-sign. A former member of the armed forces who served in Afghanistan, Villanueva is tough, loyal, and one of the best left tackles in the NFL.
The 6-9, 320-pound tackle began seeing starting time in 2015. He signed a four-year, $24 million deal with Pittsburgh in 2017 and proceeded to make two Pro Bowls. Nearing his 32nd birthday, Villanueva is only the 21st highest-paid left tackle in the league in terms of annual salary, according to Spotrac. His new deal should pay at least $10 million a year.
47. Philip Rivers, QB, Indianapolis Colts
Rivers signed a one-year, $25 million deal with the Colts this offseason. While the eight-time Pro Bowler led the Los Angeles Chargers to a 12-4 record in 2018 and put together a dark horse MVP candidacy, everything fell apart last season. Rivers threw 23 touchdowns to 20 interceptions and went 5-11 as a starter.
In the same vein as Cam Newton, it’s worth wondering whether Rivers is a starting-caliber quarterback anymore. He can rebound and produce a respectable season behind Indianapolis’ dominant offensive line, but the Colts don’t have as many receiving threats as the Chargers did. Either way, Rivers’ best days are behind him.
There’s a chance Rivers walks away from football once his current contract ends. The 38-year-old already agreed to become the head coach of St. Michael Catholic High School when he retires. A father of nine children with a post-playing career already lined up, it’s hard to say whether Rivers even wants to entertain signing another NFL contract.
46. Marlon Mack, RB, Indianapolis Colts
The Colts made their intentions regarding Mack’s future fairly clear when they drafted Wisconsin’s Jonathan Taylor with the 41st overall pick. A collegiate superstar, Taylor could start on several teams in the NFL, and Indianapolis might move Mack to the bench at some point in 2020 in favor of the talented rookie.
A fourth-round pick from 2017, Mack overachieved during his first three seasons in the NFL. His last two years, in particular, were noteworthy. In 26 games, Mack ran for 1,999 yards while averaging 4.5 yards per carry and 76.9 yards per game. He also punched in 17 rushing touchdowns.
Mack did not make over $1 million from his contract in any of his first three seasons. He makes around $2.2 million this year, but the 24-year-old could get a deal between $5-8 million annually when he hits the open market.
45. Justin Houston, DE, Indianapolis Colts
Another member of the stacked 2011 draft class, Houston was once a perennial Pro Bowler. Unfortunately, injuries and a morphing defense limited the four-time Pro Bowler during his final four seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs. Last year, Houston signed a two-year, $24 million deal with the Colts.
Indianapolis purposely limited Houston’s snaps last season, only using him on 65 percent of the team’s defensive players. As a result, Houston stayed healthy and produced his best pass-rushing numbers since 2014. He enters the 2020 season with 89.5 career sacks in nine seasons.
While Houston isn’t a premier sack artist anymore, he’s perfect in pass-rushing situations. He won’t get $12 million a year again, but the former All-Pro should still cash in next offseason.
44. Dalvin Tomlinson, DT, New York Giants
A second-round pick from 2017, Tomlinson played an underrated role on New York’s defensive front during his first three seasons. According to PFF, Tomlinson was the highest-graded player on New York’s defense last season, surpassing Leonard Williams and rookie Dexter Lawrence. His 78.1 overall grade ranked 11th among all interior DL with at least 500 snaps.
Tomlinson also showed his consistency last year, earning a PFF grade over 78 for the third consecutive season. If he goes four-for-four by posting another high grade in 2020, the Giants should do everything they can to lock Tomlinson up for the long-term. He means a lot to the team’s defensive front.
43. Matt Feiler, RT, Pittsburgh Steelers
Feiler entered the NFL as an undrafted player in 2014. After spending some time in Houston, Feiler made his way onto Pittsburgh’s practice squad. Now, the Bloomsburg product is entering his third season as the team’s starting right tackle.
Last year, Feiler emerged as one of the best right tackles in the NFL. He and Carolina’s Taylor Moton comprise an interesting right tackle free agency class. After finishing his one-year, $3.259 million deal with the Steelers this year, Feiler should fetch a hefty price on the open market.
Philadelphia’s Lane Johnson leads all right tackles in annual salary, making $18 million a year. Feiler won’t challenge that mark, but he could sign a contract worth between $8-12 million annually. Feiler recently turned 28 years old.
42. Chris Carson, RB, Seattle Seahawks
Carson is another member in a stacked running back free agency class. The Seahawks selected Carson with a seventh-round pick, meaning Seattle underpaid him for years. The Oklahoma State product never made more than $700 thousand off his contract in a single year during his first three seasons.
While he only played a little in 2017 before suffering a season-ending injury, Carson became a crucial part of Seattle’s offense over the past two years. During that time, he ran for 2,381 yards and punched in 16 touchdowns. Carson accumulated 2,810 yards from scrimmage and 18 total touchdowns between 2018 and 2019.
One of the most consistent running backs in the NFL when it comes to raw production, Carson could easily make over $7 million annually on a new deal.
41. Taylor Decker, LT, Detroit Lions
The Lions used the 16th overall pick in 2016 on Decker. Since entering the NFL, the Ohio State product has slowly adjusted to the pro level and become a reliable starter on an otherwise inconsistent unit. While he missed half of the 2017 season, Decker has remained relatively healthy during his young career.
According to PFF, Decker ranked 24th among all offensive linemen and ninth among all offensive tackles through Week 15 last year. Decker showed significant improvement in the running game, but he needs another season of consistent production before teams accept him as a well-rounded left tackle.
With D’Andre Swift joining Detroit’s bruised backfield and Matthew Stafford returning from a season-ending injury, Decker should put together a stellar performance this coming season.
40. Alex Mack, C, Atlanta Falcons
Approaching his 35th birthday, there’s a chance Mack walks away from football after the 2020 season. A six-time Pro Bowler, Mack is in the final season of a five-year, $45 million deal he signed with Atlanta in 2016.
On the wrong side of 30, Mack is beginning his descent down the mountain. The former first-round pick made his last Pro Bowl appearance in 2018, and his last All-Pro selection came in 2017. Mack recently earned a spot on the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s All-2010s Team.
39. Shaquill Griffin, CB, Seattle Seahawks
After two mediocre seasons, Griffin finally broke through for Seattle this past year. The former third-round pick needed to prove his worth as a top cornerback, and he delivered. Griffin earned his first Pro Bowl bid last year and settled in as the best defensive back in Seattle’s remade secondary.
Griffin did not intercept a pass last year, but he did break up 13 pass attempts and finished the year as PFF’s 13th highest-ranked cornerback on a list of the top corners through Week 17. According to PFF’s Solomon Wilcots, Griffin generated a 21.2 percent forced incompletion rate, which ranked first among a list of the league’s top-25 corners through the season’s final week.
This year is the first time Griffin makes more than $1 million in total salary. While he won’t get a record deal in 2021, Griffin should lock on to the deal Cincinnati gave Trae Waynes, which pays out $14 million annually. If Waynes can make that kind of cash, so can Griffin.
38. Budda Baker, S, Arizona Cardinals
In 2017, the Cardinals selected Baker in the second round. He immediately became a special teams standout, making the Pro Bowl and earning a First-Team All-Pro selection for his work in that facet of the game. As a rookie, Baker played 64% of Arizona’s special teams snaps and only 48% of the team’s defensive snaps.
Baker’s role changed during his second season. He became a full-time defensive starter, and his role on special teams almost vanished. This past season, Baker made the Pro Bowl again. However, he earned the selection for his role on Arizona’s defense this time. Baker finished the year with six passes defensed and 147 tackles.
37. Leonard Fournette, RB, Jacksonville Jaguars
When the Jaguars selected Fournette with the fourth overall pick in 2017, the franchise hoped he could become a generational player. Some analysts and scouts even compared Fournette to Adrian Peterson when the powerful back began making waves at LSU. Unfortunately, Fournette never became a superstar in the NFL.
Fournette put together a respectable rookie season, rushing for 1,040 yards and nine touchdowns in 13 games. However, he missed eight games in 2018, and Jacksonville’s organization began battling internal drama. Fournette produced 1,674 yards from scrimmage and three touchdowns this past season, but the Jaguars still declined his fifth-year option.
While Fournette can have breakout performances, his injury history is worrisome, and he’s not an efficient enough player to qualify for superstardom.
36. Desmond King, CB, Los Angeles Chargers
King fell to the fifth round of the 2017 NFL Draft before the Chargers picked him with the 151st overall selection. As a rookie, King served primarily as a slot cornerback and kick returner. His role hasn’t changed much over the past two years, except he started returning punts. In 2018, King earned a First-Team All-Pro selection as a defensive back and a Second-Team All-Pro selection as a punt returner.
Compared to his first two seasons, 2019 was a disappointing year for King. The Iowa product’s role is Los Angeles could change this season. The Chargers signed Chris Harris, and the team plans on playing the former All-Pro in the slot. Does that mean King shifts outside? It seems like the fourth-year pro’s role in Los Angeles is shrinking ahead of his free agency.
35. Hunter Henry, TE (Franchise Tag), Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers want Henry around for the long haul. The franchise pegged him as Antonio Gates’ successor years ago, and they don’t plan on letting the former second-round pick walk away in free agency. That’s why the Chargers used their franchise tag on Henry. He’ll make $10.607 million this coming season, which is slightly above his market value.
Over his first four seasons, Henry proved he could produce at a borderline Pro Bowl level. Unfortunately, the Arkansas product can’t stay healthy for a full season. Henry missed two games in 2017, sat out the entire 2018 season with a torn ACL, and missed four weeks this past year. If Henry can prove he’s capable of staying healthy, the Chargers should give him a long-term deal.
34. Todd Gurley, RB, Atlanta Falcons
I’m a greater believer in Gurley’s ability to rebound from a forgettable 2019 season and possible knee issues that most analysts. After earning back-to-back First-Team All-Pro selections, Gurley did not live up to his standards in 2019. He didn’t live up to his contract either, so the Los Angeles Rams cut the former tenth overall pick.
Gurley signed a one-year, $5.5 million deal with the Falcons, hoping to prove that he can still play at a high level. It’s hard to tell where his career is going. A year and a half ago, Gurley was still one of the top three running backs in the NFL. Now he’s making less money than Austin Ekeler.
Atlanta is the perfect place for Gurley to resurrect his career. There’s an established passing attack anchored by Julio Jones and Matt Ryan, and there isn’t a clear running back on the roster who could steal carries from Gurley.
33. Brandon Scherff, G (Franchise Tag), Washington Football Team
Washington drafted Scherff with the fifth overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft. While he only missed two games during his first three seasons, the Iowa product missed 13 games over the past two years. Despite only making 11 appearances in 2019, Scherff still earned his third Pro Bowl selection.
Unsure about the future of its franchise and Scherff’s long-term viability, Washington used the franchise tag on its star guard. On the tag, Scherff makes $15.03 million next year. For context, Brandon Brooks’ contract is the most lucrative among all guards. He makes about $14.087 million annually.
While Scherff is a quality guard, he doesn’t rank among the league’s elite interior linemen. He’s probably worth $11-13 million annually but not a record-breaking deal.
32. Aaron Jones, RB, Green Bay Packers
Three years ago, the Packers selected Jones in the fifth-round. The UTEP product ran for 1,773 yards and 17 touchdowns during his final collegiate season, but that didn’t inspire NFL suitors. Luckily, the Packers went back to the running back position after selecting BYU’s Jamaal Williams in the fourth round.
After serving as an accessory in Green Bay’s offense during his first two seasons, Jones led the NFL with 16 rushing touchdowns, and his 19 total touchdowns tied Christian McCaffrey for the league lead. Jones also finished the year with 1,084 rushing yards and 1,558 yards from scrimmage. However, Green Bay didn’t offer Jones an extension this offseason.
Chances for a long-term deal between Jones and the Packers seem slim, especially since Green Bay selected Boston College’s AJ Dillon in the second-round this year.
31. T.Y. Hilton, WR, Indianapolis Colts
Since entering the NFL in 2012, Hilton has been one of the league’s most consistent wide receivers. Over his first seven seasons, Hilton averaged 72 receptions, 1,156 yards, and almost six touchdowns. Unfortunately, the injury bug struck Hilton in 2019, and he never fully recovered.
The four-time Pro Bowler started ten games last year and finished the season with 45 receptions for 501 yards and five touchdowns. It was the worst season of Hilton’s career. However, there’s hope for the future. With Philip Rivers pushing Jacoby Brissett to the bench, the quarterback play in Indianapolis should improve dramatically.
Hilton is 30 years old, which could mean that the FIU product is at or past his prime. However, I’m hopeful that Hilton can carve out a few more 1,000-yard seasons.
30. Kareem Hunt, RB, Cleveland Browns
You can hate Hunt for his off-the-field actions, he deserves it, but there’s a strong chance the former third-round pick reclaims a starting spot next offseason. Hunt seemed destined for greatness with the Kansas City Chiefs before a video surfaced of getting physically aggressive with a woman. The Chiefs parted ways with Hunt, and he received an eight-game suspension for violating the league’s domestic violence policy.
Hunt served his suspension this past season as a member of the Browns. He’s returning to Cleveland in 2020 on a one-year, $3.259 million deal. Hunt, who led the NFL with 1,327 rushing yards as a rookie, only produced 464 yards from scrimmage during his eight appearances last season. Expect him to play a larger role in Cleveland’s offense this year as he battles for another chance to reach stardom.
29. Cooper Kupp, WR, Los Angeles Rams
Kupp fell to the third-round in 2017, and the Rams capitalized by snatching up the Eastern Washington product with the 69th overall pick. As a rookie, Kupp flashed potential. He finished the season with 62 receptions for 869 yards and five touchdowns. He made the All-Rookie team, but Kupp began showing his game-changing abilities in 2018.
In 2018, Kupp tore his ACL midway through the season. He did not return for Los Angeles’ Super Bowl loss to the New England Patriots. Kupp finished the year with 566 yards and six touchdowns. If he played the full season alongside 1,200-yard receivers Brandin Cooks and Robert Woods, maybe the Rams would’ve come out on top against Tom Brady.
Kupp bounced back perfectly this past season, amassing 94 receptions, 1,161 yards, and ten touchdowns. Spotrac places Kupp’s annual value at $16.7 million. The future Pro Bowler’s rookie contract only pays out $3.83 million in total.
28. Matt Judon, OLB (Franchise Tag), Baltimore Ravens
While he put together solid showings in 2017 and 2018, Judon reached a new level of success this season, making the first Pro Bowl of his career. The gifted edge rusher led the Ravens with 9.5 sacks and 33 quarterback hits. Not wanting to lose their best sack artist, the Ravens used their franchise tag on Judon.
The former fifth-round pick had huge shoes to fill, needing to replace production from Za’Darius Smith and Terrell Suggs. While he probably won’t ever be an All-Pro or elite defender, Judon is the perfect complement for Baltimore’s high-profile secondary. He gives the defensive front enough of an edge to back offenses into a corner.
27. Allen Robinson, WR, Chicago Bears
Robinson began his up and down NFL career when the Jacksonville Jaguars selected him in the second-round six years ago. Robinson made the Pro Bowl in 2015, catching 80 passes for 1,400 yards and a league-leading 14 touchdowns. However, Robinson’s production dipped the following year as Blake Bortles struggled, and the young receiver tore an ACL in Week 1 of the 2017 season.
Robinson signed a three-year, $42 million deal with the Bears in 2018. He appeared in 13 games that season and produced mediocre numbers. Transitioning from catching passes from Bortles to Mitchell Trubisky stunted the Penn State product’s growth as a receiver.
Robinson did return to prominence this past year, hauling in 98 passes for 1,147 yards and seven touchdowns. As Robinson approaches his 27th birthday, the young receiver might want to find an elite quarterback to play with during his prime.
26. Kenny Clark, DT/NT, Green Bay Packers
Fans often don’t include Clark’s name in discussions surrounding the league’s best interior defensive linemen. However, he made the Pro Bowl in 2019 and is entering this coming year with high expectations. Many analysts believe Clark could make the same leap Grady Jarrett did recently.
Clark is a beast against the run and plays an underrated role in the pass rush. Most people brush off his 12 sacks and 16 quarterback hits over the past two seasons as pedestrian totals, but Clark makes a more significant impact in the passing game than raw statistics show. If the Packers have to choose between franchise tagging Aaron Jones and Clark, they’re keeping Clark.
On his rookie contract, Clark only made around $2.34 million annually. His new deal should at least match Jarran Reed’s $11.5 million price tag.
25. Joe Thuney, G (Franchise Tag), New England Patriots
Since joining the Patriots as a third-round pick in 2016, Thuney hasn’t missed a start. He’s one of the best guards in the NFL, and PFF considers him “one of the 10 most valuable guards in each of the past three seasons.” In a free agency class loaded with offensive tackles, Thuney is the best available interior offensive lineman.
The Patriots franchise-tagged Thuney this offseason, but the two sides did not reach a long-term extension. Thuney makes $14.781 million on the tag. When the North Carolina State product signs a long-term deal, he should make closer to $13 million annually.
24. A.J. Green, WR (Franchise Tag), Cincinnati Bengals
Green is one of the most polarizing free agent prospects in 2021. We’ll learn a lot about the former first-round pick’s NFL future and current condition from how he plays this year. I remain hopeful that the soon-to-be 32-year-old can regain some of his former glory, especially with Joe Burrow at quarterback.
Green made the Pro Bowl during each of his first seven seasons. During that time, he made 556 receptions for 8,213 yards and 57 touchdowns. Unfortunately, injuries began taking a toll on Green. The former fourth overall pick only played nine games in 2018 and chose to sit out the entire 2019 season.
The Bengals have one of the best wide receiver corps on paper. Assuming Green is even a shell of his former self, Cincinnati’s offense should thrive in 2020.
23. Shaquil Barrett, OLB (Franchise Tag), Tampa Bay Buccaneers
A former undrafted free agent from Colorado State, Barrett spent the first five seasons of his career with the Denver Broncos. While playing at Mile High, Barrett recorded 14 sacks and 35 quarterback hits. He wasn’t even guaranteed to start for Tampa Bay when he signed a one-year, $4 million deal with the team last spring.
Barrett became a destructive force along Tampa Bay’s defensive front. He amassed a league-leading 19.5 sacks to go along with 37 quarterback hits and six forced fumbles. The Buccaneers placed a $15.828 million franchise tag on Barrett this offseason, hoping to see if he could repeat as a Pro Bowler in 2020 before giving him a long-term deal.
22. Justin Simmons, S (Franchise Tag), Denver Broncos
Simmons emerged as a contributor on Denver’s defense during his rookie season. While he only started three games that year, Simmons intercepted two passes. The Boston College product became a full-time starter in his second season and intercepted two more passes.
Simmons staked his claim as one of the NFL’s best safeties last season. He intercepted four passes and broke up 15. The free safety also registered 93 tackles. While cornerbacks like Chris Harris and Aqib Talib carried Denver’s secondary in the past, the team’s safety position is a strong suit now.
Denver used the franchise tag on Simmons this summer, meaning he’s owed $11.441 million in 2020. When he signs an extension, Simmons should get between $11.5 and $13.5 million annually.
21. Demario Davis, OLB, New Orleans Saints
It took a while, but Davis finally received recognition for being one of the NFL’s best linebackers. The New York Jets originally selected Davis in the third round of the 2012 NFL Draft. While he’s never missed a game in his career and has only missed one start since the beginning of the 2013 season, Davis never appeared on a list of the league’s top linebackers.
While he’s put together three consecutive seasons worthy of Pro Bowl selections, Davis never received enough fan votes to make the game. However, the media didn’t overlook Davis’ heroics last year. He racked up 111 tackles, four sacks, an interception and 12 passes defensed on his way to a First-Team All-Pro selection.
Davis is the league’s 19th highest-paid outside linebacker, making $8 million annually. At 31 years old, he won’t receive a deal longer than three years in 2021, but the Arkansas State product could ask for $12-14 million per year on a new contract.
20. Joe Mixon, RB, Cincinnati Bengals
Over the past two seasons, Mixon produced borderline Pro Bowl numbers. He tallied 2,305 rushing yards and 13 rushing touchdowns on 515 carries. The Oklahoma product also contributed 78 receptions for 583 yards and four touchdowns. Mixon lags slightly behind two other running backs on this list because he plays a smaller role in the passing game.
Mixon battled for every inch he gained last season. With a bad quarterback situation and a porous offensive line, Mixon couldn’t put much together during his first eight appearances. However, he completely turned things around during the season’s second half, rushing for 817 yards in the final eight weeks.
Mixon’s current deal only pays out roughly $1.362 million annually. That ranks 48th among running back contracts. His next deal should be worth at least $8 million annually.
19. Trent Williams, LT, San Francisco 49ers
Frustrated with Washington to the point of disgust, Williams sat out the entire 2019 season rather than play another game for Dan Snyder’s franchise. Sitting out ended Williams’ Pro Bowl streak at seven consecutive years. However, the 32-year-old found a new home this offseason when the 49ers traded Washington a 2020 fifth-round draft pick and a 2021 third-round draft pick.
Williams joins the 2019 NFC Champions, who should try to lock him down on a multi-year extension immediately. Williams is currently making the eighth-most money annually among left tackles at $13.6 million, but he could request a deal worth at least $16 million annually.
At 32 years old, Williams could compete at a high level for another four or five seasons. Jason Peters and Andrew Whitworth both received new contracts this offseason, and they’re 38 years old. Duane Brown is approaching his 35th birthday and still playing at a high level too. Williams’ age shouldn’t scare away teams.
18. Kenny Golladay, WR, Detroit Lions
As a former third-round pick, Golladay’s rookie contract is worth less annually than the deals for 142 other wide receivers in the NFL. Last season, despite leading the league in receiving touchdowns and making the Pro Bowl, Golladay made less than $900 thousand from his contract. That’ll all change significantly next offseason.
Since becoming a full-time starter in 2018, Golladay has made 135 receptions for 2,253 yards and 16 touchdowns. At 6-4, the Northern Illinois product knows how to get vertical with defensive backs and shred secondaries for huge chunks of yardage. Golladay has out-produced Odell Beckham over the past two years.
When he enters free agency, Golladay should receive an offer that makes him one of the ten highest-paid wide receivers in the NFL. That means signing a contract worth at least $16.1 million annually.
17. Dalvin Cook, RB, Minnesota Vikings
When the Vikings used a second-round pick on Cook in 2017, they hoped the Florida State product could replace Adrian Peterson as the team’s leading running back. Cook did eventually fulfill his potential, but it took some time. The former Heisman Trophy candidate only appeared in 15 games during his first two seasons because of injuries.
With his career potentially on the line, Cook delivered in 2019. He received 303 touches and racked up 1,654 yards from scrimmage and 13 total touchdowns. Cook averaged 4.5 yards per carry and 81.1 rushing yards per game during his 14 appearances. Cook’s stellar performance earned him a trip to the Pro Bowl
Injuries remain a constant concern with Cook. He needs to prove he can stay healthy and productive for consecutive seasons before receiving a significant extension.
16. Alvin Kamara, RB, New Orleans Saints
Kamara reached the Pro Bowl during each of his first three seasons, but the 2017 Offensive Rookie of the Year struggled without Mark Ingram last year. After averaging 1,573 yards from scrimmage and 15.5 touchdowns during his first two seasons, Kamara only produced 1,330 yards from scrimmage and six touchdowns in 2019.
While he’s a versatile back who made 81 receptions in each of his first three seasons, Kamara isn’t going to lead the charge on the ground. He’s never taken more than 200 carries in a season. The former third-round pick requires a creative offensive coordinator to bring out his true potential.
15. Yannick Ngakoue, DE (Franchise Tag), Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars placed their franchise tag on Ngakoue this offseason, not wanting to let the former Pro Bowler slip away. However, Ngakoue seems bent on not playing in Jacksonville this season. From getting in Twitter fights with Tony Khan to not signing the franchise tag initially, Ngakoue is doing his best to let the world know he wants out. Jacksonville doesn’t seem to care.
No team is going to offer the Jaguars a first-round pick for a one-year rental defensive end, especially one that’s beaten down his value by claiming he wants out. Will Ngakoue refuse to don the Jaguars uniform again and miss out on a $17.788 million payday? I don’t think anyone, even Ngakoue, knows the answer to that yet.
Since entering the league in 2016, Ngakoue has 37.5 sacks, 85 quarterback hits, 14 forced fumbles, and two defensive touchdowns.
14. David Bakhtiari, LT, Green Bay Packers
Nearing his 29th birthday, Bakhtiari is one of the best left tackles in the NFL. He’s earned a First or Second-Team All-Pro selection in each of the past four seasons, making him one of the hottest commodities that could hit free agency in 2021. Green Bay might use the franchise tag on Bakhtiari, fearing they’ll leave Aaron Rodgers’ blind side unprotected without the dominant tackle.
According to PFF, Bakhtiari is the best left tackle in pass protection since Joe Thomas. The former fourth-round pick makes $12 million annually on his current deal, which ranks 12th among all left tackles. His price range in 2021 should fall between $16-20 million annually.
13. Richard Sherman, CB, San Francisco 49ers
Some analysts and fans believed Sherman couldn’t play at a high level again when he signed with the 49ers two years ago. The former fifth-round pick, who always has a chip on his shoulder, went about proving everyone wrong. After a borderline Pro Bowl campaign in 2018, Sherman regained his All-Pro form this past season, receiving a Second Team nod from the Associated Press and a First Team spot from PFF.
Sherman played an enormous role in San Francisco’s defensive backfield. The secondary was San Francisco’s greatest defensive weakness last year, yet Sherman served as a leader and held the unit together. He intercepted three passes and broke up 11 other attempts, leading the 49ers in both categories.
12. Patrick Peterson, CB, Arizona Cardinals
Peterson’s free agency comes at an uncertain time for the future Hall of Famer. After opening his career with eight consecutive Pro Bowl appearances, the LSU product served a six-game suspension last season for violating the league’s policy on performance-enhancing drugs. While he started Arizona’s remaining ten games, Peterson never recaptured his usual form.
The five-year, $70.05 million extension ($14.01 million annually) Peterson signed in 2014 still makes him the fifth highest-paid cornerback in the game today. However, he won’t receive a record deal next offseason. He’ll be lucky if he gets another contract worth $14 million per year. There’s a lot for Peterson to prove in 2020.
While he played worse than Sherman in 2019, Peterson ranks one spot higher than his fellow 2011 draftee because the former fifth overall pick is only 30 years old. Sherman is already 32.
11. Lavonte David, ILB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
One of the most underrated and productive linebackers in recent history, David is entering the final season of a five-year, $50.25 million deal. Since joining Tampa Bay as a second-round pick in 2012, David’s consistency and production place him among the same ranks as Luke Kuechly and Bobby Wagner. If he played on a winning team or in a bigger market, David would be an annual Pro Bowler.
Over his eight-year career, Davis stuffed the stat sheet. He only made one Pro Bowl and two total All-Pro Teams, but the Nebraska product has 1,008 tackles, 22.5 sacks, 21 forced fumbles, 14 fumble recoveries, 11 interceptions, 45 passes defensed and three defensive touchdowns. David is one of the best defensive players of his era.
At 30 years old, David could conceivably play at an All-Pro level for another two or three years. However, Kuechly recently retired at 28 years old, and there are already concerns about Wagner’s play slipping as he enters his age-30 season.
10. Cameron Heyward, DT, Pittsburgh Steelers
The Ohio State product began his NFL career as a mediocre defensive end. However, the Steelers eventually kicked Heyward inside. Now he’s one of the top three defensive tackles in the league. The move came late in his career, considering Heyward is already 31 years old, but the three-time Pro Bowler should still cash in next spring.
Over the past three seasons, Heyward produced 29 sacks, 63 quarterback hits, and 179 tackles. He earned two First-Team All-Pro selections during that time, joining Aaron Donald as the only other defensive tackle to accomplish the feat.
The Steelers got lucky when they signed Heyward to a six-year, $59.2 million extension in 2015. After working on a contract worth less than $10 million annually for over half a decade, Spotrac puts Heyward’s market value at $16.7 million.
9. Keenan Allen, WR, Los Angeles Chargers
We’ll see if Allen can maintain his production without Philip Rivers. The three-time Pro Bowl wide receiver might take a step back with Justin Herbert and Tyrod Taylor throwing him passes this season, but that shouldn’t drastically hurt Allen’s market value. One of the top five wide receivers projected to enter free agency next year, Allen should receive a massive pay raise.
In 2016, Allen signed a four-year, $45 million extension with the Chargers. It was a massive amount of money, especially to give to a receiver with a lengthy injury history. Several years later, Allen hasn’t missed a game in three seasons and is searching for his fourth consecutive Pro Bowl appearance.
The wide receiver market changed drastically over the past four years. Allen’s deal is only the 19th most-lucrative at the position. When the 28-year-old goes to the negotiating table next year, he’ll become one of the ten highest-paid receivers in the NFL.
8. Dak Prescott, QB (Franchise Tag), Dallas Cowboys
Quarterbacks receive all of the love in the NFL. However, I’m not over-inflating Prescott’s free agency value because he plays the league’s most coveted position. Prescott probably shouldn’t even be this high considering that there are multiple All-Pros lined up behind him. The former fourth-round pick hasn’t even sniffed an All-Pro season yet.
Prescott makes $31.409 million on the franchise tag this year, which ranks eighth among all quarterbacks in terms of annual salary. It’s worth noting Prescott’s rookie deal was for four years and only $2.72 million, meaning the Cowboys owe him for several seasons of underpaid labor.
During those four years, Prescott led Dallas to a 40-24 record and two playoff appearances. He’s by no means an elite quarterback, but the 26-year-old falls somewhere between the eight to thirteen range in the quarterback hierarchy.
If the Cowboys don’t get a deal done with Prescott next offseason, he’s probably worth about $33 million annually. That doesn’t mean a team won’t sign him to a deal in the $37 million range.
7. Anthony Harris, S (Franchise Tag), Minnesota Vikings
A former undrafted free agent from Virginia, Harris began working his way into Minnesota’s starting lineup in 2018. By 2019, he held the full-time starting job. The Vikings got lucky they gave Harris a chance because he formed one of the best safety duos in the league with Harrison Smith this past season.
Harris tied for the NFL lead with six interceptions in 2019. He did not make the Pro Bowl, but PFF awarded Harris with a First-Team All-Pro selection. Eager to keep their top safety duo together, the Vikings used their franchise tag on Harris. Under the tag, he’ll make $11.441 million this year. That’s a massive raise from the $3.095 million he made last season.
6. Marcus Williams, S, New Orleans Saints
The Saints hit several home runs with their 2017 draft class. Unfortunately, that means New Orleans must pay all of those star players. The fifth-year rookie option gives the Saints another year before they have to deal with Marshon Lattimore and Ryan Ramczyk, but Alvin Kamara and Williams need new deals as soon as possible.
Since entering the NFL as a second-round pick in 2017, Williams has regularly performed at a high level. He’s an annual member of the top-ten safeties in the league. Serving as a center fielder, Williams intercepted ten passes during his first three seasons and broke up 23 other attempts.
Williams’ rookie contract makes him the 63rd highest-paid safety in the league (roughly $1.56 million annually). A new deal should put Williams among the top six highest-paid players at his position, meaning he’ll make between $11.5 and $14.6 million per year.
5. Chris Godwin, WR, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Congratulations to all of the fantasy football analysts who predicted Godwin would go off in 2019. You were right. In his third season with the Buccaneers, Godwin made the Pro Bowl and earned a Second-Team All-Pro selection. His 95.2 receiving yards per game finished second in the NFL, only trailing Michael Thomas’ 107.8.
Last year, Godwin produced 86 receptions for 1,333 yards and nine touchdowns. The 24-year-old thrived alongside Mike Evans and could reach even greater heights with Tom Brady under center. Unless the Buccaneers reach an extension with Godwin, the team probably has him pegged for their franchise tag.
As a former third-round pick, Godwin only makes around $821 thousand annually. Assuming he remains somewhat consistent in 2020, the Penn State product should receive a contract that puts him among the top five or six highest-paid receivers in the NFL. That’s in the $17-20 million range.
4. Jalen Ramsey, CB, Los Angeles Rams
The Rams did not trade two first-round picks and a fourth-round selection for Ramsey just to let the former All-Pro walk out the door next spring. The two sides are probably fighting to get a long-term contract extension done, but that could prove difficult for Los Angeles. The Rams already handed huge chunks of their salary cap to Aaron Donald and Jared Goff.
Ramsey’s rookie deal paid him roughly $5.837 million annually, making it the 31st most-lucrative contract among cornerbacks. Meanwhile, Byron Jones and Darius Slay recently signed record-setting deals worth $16.5 million and $16.683 million annually. Ramsey wants something in the $16.7 million range.
At 25 years old, Ramsey already has three Pro Bowls and one First-Team All-Pro selection under his belt.
3. Ronnie Stanley, LT, Baltimore Ravens
Stanley became everything the Ravens hopes he would be when they took him with the sixth overall pick in 2016. The 6-6, 315-pound Notre Dame product dominated this past season, earning a Pro Bowl nod and a First-Team All-Pro selection. PFF even awarded Stanley the title of Pass Blocker of the Year for 2019.
While he played a massive role in Lamar Jackson’s success, Stanley might cause the Ravens some trouble. The 26-year-old is in the final season of his rookie deal and has the ammunition to ask for a record-breaking contract.
The Houston Texans recently made Laremy Tunsil the highest paid tackle in history, giving him a deal worth $22 million annually. Tunsil never even made an All-Pro team and only made the first Pro Bowl of his career this past season. While Tunsil is one of the best left tackles in the NFL, he’s not a generational talent. Stanley, on the other hand, could reign atop the league for years to come.
Stanley deserves a record-breaking deal next offseason. It comes down to whether or not the Ravens can meet his demands. If not, expect Baltimore to use its franchise tag on Stanley.
2. Joey Bosa, DE, Los Angeles Chargers
At 25 years old, Bosa is part of the next wave of great pass rushers. In his first four seasons, Bosa appeared in 51 games and tallied 40 sacks, 82 quarterback hits, and 201 tackles. He thrives against the pass and the run, joining an elite club of defensive lineman capable of holding their own in any situation.
Injuries remain a slight concern for Bosa. He missed four games as a rookie but still won Defensive Rookie of the Year. The Ohio State product also missed nine games in 2018, which set his team back significantly. If we ignore Bosa’s 2018 season, he’s averaging 11.5 sacks and 24 quarterback hits per year.
I doubt the Chargers will let Bosa test free agency. However, there are five Chargers players in this article. Maybe the team uses the franchise tag on someone other than Bosa, but I doubt it.
Myles Garrett recently signed a five-year, $125 million record-setting contract extension. I’m sure Bosa paid close attention to that number and wants something in the same range.
1. George Kittle, TE, San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers found a diamond in the rough when they selected Kittle in the fifth round of the 2017 NFL Draft. Kittle got lucky going to a franchise that put together a Super Bowl contender this past season. However, that doesn’t mean he’s going to give San Francisco a discount next spring.
Over the past two seasons, Kittle started 30 games and made 173 receptions for 2,430 yards and ten touchdowns. He’s arguably the best blocking tight end in football and is the best Rob Gronkowski clone we’ve seen since the original’s retirement. That means he blocks like a lineman and runs with the ball like a fullback.
Defenders can only slow Kittle down in the hopes that they’ll gang tackle him. The 6-4, 250-pound Iowa product is a force of nature that even outshines Travis Kelce. Kittle received a Second-Team All-Pro nod in 2018 and earned a First-Team All-Pro selection this past season. He’s the best tight end in the game today.
Under his rookie contract, Kittle makes $674,572 annually. That’s the 148th most-lucrative contract among all NFL tight ends. When he enters free agency, Kittle wants what his agent calls “a George Kittle deal.” Presumably, that means Kittle wants an annual salary that resets the tight end market and even compares favorably to some wide receiver contracts.