Nothing sells tickets in the NFL quite like an elite quarterback and explosive offense. But Super Bowl LVIII is recent evidence that defense still matters greatly in the hunt for a Lombardi Trophy. Perhaps more than even Patrick Mahomes, Steve Spagnuolo’s Kansas City Chiefs defense helped propel the third title in five years for this generation’s NFL dynasty.
With that in mind, all 32 teams figure to explore this year’s veteran market for defensive upgrades. And 2024 free agency, which begins later this month, actually has quite a few starting-caliber pieces to offer. Note: Some players who made the cut for this list might no longer be available as we move closer to the start of free agency.
(To check out the top 25 offensive free agents, click here).
Here’s an early look at 25 of the best defenders set to be available:
Honorable mentions: Chiefs DE Mike Danna, Eagles DE Brandon Graham, Texans DL Sheldon Rankins, Colts DL Grover Stewart, Ravens OLB Jadeveon Clowney, Browns OLB Za’Darius Smith, Patriots OLB Josh Uche, Buccaneers LB Devin White, Seahawks LB Jordyn Brooks, Seahawks LB Bobby Wagner, Broncos LB Josey Jewell, Chiefs LB Willie Gay Jr., Texans CB Steven Nelson, Colts CB Kenny Moore II, Rams S Jordan Fuller, Lions S C.J. Gardner-Johnson, Giants S Xavier McKinney, Dolphins DE Emmanuel Ogbah
He turns 30 this summer, and he’s missed extensive time due to injury in two of his last four seasons. But Reader is a mammoth-sized gap-plugger who’s been rock-steady when healthy for both the Cincinnati Bengals and Houston Texans. His impact goes well beyond the numbers, particularly as a run defender.
After a multiyear lull, Cox returned to starting-caliber form on an otherwise shoddy Philadelphia Eagles defense in 2023. At 33, he’s still best suited in a rotational role, no longer the every-down stud of his prime. But if he doesn’t retire or re-sign in Philly, he should have suitors…
Source link : https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2024-nfl-free-agency-ranking-top-25-defensive-players-including-chiefs-chris-jones-jaguars-josh-allen/
Author : Cody Benjamin
Publish date : 2024-03-04 16:00:53
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