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.
(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, Colts DL Grover Stewart, 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, former Seahawks S Quandre Diggs
On a Miami Dolphins roster loaded with speed and celebrity, Van Ginkel emerged in 2023 as more of a rugged breakout, logging a career-high six sacks, plus 19 QB hits, as a part-time starter. Couple that with three other years of solid rotational work, and he’s primed for a bigger gig moving forward.
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.
23. Ravens DE/OLB Jadeveon Clowney
Did he finally find a new level at age 30, or did he just benefit from the Baltimore Ravens’ stellar scheme and setup in 2023? There’s probably some truth to both. Clowney is the…
Source link : https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2024-nfl-free-agency-ranking-top-25-defensive-players-including-chiefs-chris-jones-jets-bryce-huff/
Author : Cody Benjamin
Publish date : 2024-03-07 18:49:42
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