With just a few weeks left in the 2024 NFL regular season, the league is entering the final stretch. While some teams are fighting tooth and nail for playoff positioning, others are looking ahead to next season. For players eyeing free agency, this is a prime opportunity to put their talents on display and secure a hefty payday. The 2025 NFL free agent class looks loaded, featuring talent on both sides of the ball.
Here’s a breakdown of the top 5 potential free agents for 2025. While some of these players could receive franchise tags or sign extensions, they’re currently on track to hit the open market.
5. Sam Darnold, Quarterback, Vikings
Sam Darnold has had a career resurgence with the Minnesota Vikings in 2024. After a rocky start to his NFL career with the Jets and Panthers, Darnold has been playing at an MVP level this season, leading the Vikings to a playoff-contending record. His performance has been so strong that he’s making Minnesota reconsider their long-term quarterback plans.
The wrinkle? The Vikings drafted J.J. McCarthy in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, which complicates the situation. Darnold’s excellent play makes him worthy of a significant contract, but Minnesota may not want to commit long-term with their rookie waiting in the wings.
Realistically, the Vikings will likely apply the franchise tag to Darnold to keep him for at least one more season while they evaluate their options. If he does hit the open market, though, teams in need of a proven starter will line up to secure the 28-year-old signal-caller.
4. D.J. Reed, Cornerback, Jets
D.J. Reed has quietly become one of the NFL’s top cornerbacks, and his timing couldn’t be better. At 28 years old, Reed is playing the best football of his career, locking down opposing receivers and putting up elite numbers.
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This season, Reed is holding quarterbacks to just a 55.6% completion percentage when targeted and an 81.1 passer rating. He’s been a menace in coverage, notching 10 pass breakups, along with 50 tackles and a sack heading into Week 15. His ability to play sticky coverage and contribute in run support makes him one of the most well-rounded corners on the market.
Given how valuable shutdown corners are in today’s pass-happy NFL, Reed will likely demand a big contract as an NFL free agent. If the Jets don’t lock him down with an extension, he’ll be one of the most sought-after defensive players available.
Also Read: 10 Horrible NFL Free Agent Signings That Destroyed A Franchise
3. Jevon Holland, Safety, Dolphins
Jevon Holland is not just the best safety in the NFL right now—he’s also young, dynamic, and entering his prime. The Dolphins’ 2021 second-round pick has evolved into an elite defensive back, and his 2024 performance is cementing his status as a top-tier player.
This season, Holland is holding quarterbacks to an absurd 51.6% completion percentage when targeted, showing off his range and coverage skills. In addition, he’s stuffed the stat sheet with 46 tackles, a sack, and a forced fumble heading into Week 15. At just 25 years old at the start of the 2025 season, Holland’s best years are still ahead of him.
The challenge for Miami will be finding the money to keep him. Safeties of Holland’s caliber don’t come cheap, and he’ll command a contract that resets the market. If the Dolphins can’t lock him up, he’ll be a game-changing addition for any defense looking to level up.
2. Trey Smith, Guard, Chiefs
Trey Smith has established himself as the premier interior offensive lineman set to hit free agency in 2025. A sixth-round steal for the Kansas City Chiefs in the 2021 NFL Draft, Smith has been a key part of their back-to-back Super Bowl runs and has continued to dominate in 2024.
Smith’s performance this season has been elite. The right guard has yet to allow a sack and has given up just five total quarterback hits. In pass protection and the run game, he’s been a stabilizing force, providing the Chiefs’ offensive line with consistency and toughness.
At just 25 years old, Smith is hitting the market at the perfect time. Teams looking to fortify their offensive line will view him as a cornerstone piece, and he’ll be paid accordingly. If Kansas City doesn’t re-sign him, expect a bidding war for one of the league’s best young guards.
1. Tee Higgins, Wide Receiver, Bengals
The crown jewel of the 2025 NFL free agent class is none other than Tee Higgins. The Bengals wideout has long been one of the most talented receivers in the NFL and will almost certainly hit the open market due to Cincinnati’s financial situation.
The Bengals already used the franchise tag on Higgins for 2024, but with Ja’Marr Chase due for a massive contract extension, it’s unlikely they can keep both receivers long-term. While Chase is the top option in Cincinnati, Higgins has repeatedly shown he has the talent to be a true No. 1 receiver.
Injuries have slowed Higgins down in 2024, but the eye test still shows his high-level ability. At 6-foot-4, he possesses elite size, ball skills, and route-running ability, making him a nightmare for opposing secondaries. Higgins will turn 25 before the 2025 season kicks off, and his combination of youth and upside will make him one of the most expensive free agents on the market.
Teams needing a dominant receiver will view Higgins as a game-changer, and he’s set to command a massive multi-year deal.
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