Free agency is approaching in the NFL. Starting March 10, teams can start negotiating with players as the legal tampering period begins, leading to the start of the new league year on March 12 when contracts can be finalized.
As teams prepare for free agency, key decisions are being made about which players will receive franchise tags. Here’s a breakdown of the top five teams expected to experience significant player departures:
5. Los Angeles Chargers
- OLB Khalil Mack, No. 21
- CB Asante Samuel Jr., No. 46
- CB Kristian Fulton, No. 55
- DT Poona Ford, No. 63
- RB J.K. Dobbins, No. 64
Despite being 34, Khalil Mack remains a top pass rusher. He totaled six sacks last season. The Chargers also have Asante Samuel Jr. and Kristian Fulton, both expected to draw attention during free agency.
4. Pittsburgh Steelers
- OG James Daniels, No. 27
- OT Dan Moore Jr., No. 42
- QB Justin Fields, No. 51
- RB Najee Harris, No. 73
- CB Donte Jackson, No. 75
The Steelers have two former starters at quarterback hitting the market in Fields and Russell Wilson, with both players likely to command significant salaries.
3. New York Jets
- CB D.J. Reed, No. 8
- ILB Jamien Sherwood, No. 23
- OLB Haason Reddick, No. 56
- OT Morgan Moses, No. 97
- OT Tyron Smith, No. 98
With teams eyeing player acquisitions this offseason, the Jets may have key decisions to make regarding their quarterback situation.
2. Minnesota Vikings
- QB Sam Darnold, No. 1
- OT Cam Robinson, No. 17
- CB Byron Murphy, No. 24
- SS Camryn Bynum, No. 29
- RB Aaron Jones, No. 39
The Vikings’ star quarterback Sam Darnold is set to hit free agency, which could transform team dynamics.
1. Philadelphia Eagles
- OLB Josh Sweat, No. 3
- DE Milton Williams, No. 6
- LB Zack Baun, No. 10
- OG Mekhi Becton, No. 19
The Eagles are set to see significant roster changes, featuring multiple high-profile free agents this offseason.
Overall, the upcoming free agency period promises to shape the future landscape of the NFL as major teams ponder their next moves.
