This downtime during the NFL offseason is the longest trek on the league calendar. The majority of impactful talent has found a new home, and most of the available big-name free agents are well past their prime.

But that doesn’t mean young playmakers aren’t still out there in late June, and we’ve identified 10 of the best.

Some of the top names who have recently signed include 28-year-olds Fabian Moreau (Houston Texans) and Larry Ogunjobi (Pittsburgh Steelers). Don’t be surprised if our top 10 lands somewhere soon too.

Each of these players is under 30 years old and ranked by their potential 2022 impact.

Let’s dive into the group and name some top potential landing spots while we’re at it.

 

10. Kevin King, CB

Flash back to the end of the 2019 season, and the future seemed bright for Green Bay Packers cornerback Kevin King. The 6’3″, 200-pounder posted a career-high 66 tackles, five interceptions and 15 pass breakups. But injuries and inconsistency over the next two seasons led to his late-June availability as a 27-year-old free agent.

King’s length has always been a positive for evaluators who fawned over his potential. However, his lanky build has left him slow to turn his hips, and he lacks recovery speed. He also doesn’t have the reliable technique needed to be a full-time starter.

That doesn’t mean he’s not a qualified depth piece in the right scheme. Still in his prime, King should be attractive for zone-based defenses that can protect him with quality safety play. He’s physical and aggressive.

King runs hot and cold, which has caused some to sour on him. But when he’s on, he’s a clear asset, such as during the three-game stretch against Cincinnati, Kansas City and Seattle last season.

That’s the version of King teams could use if a starter is unavailable for a month. Channeling his positives can lead to a rotational third corner role in the right situation.

Best fits: Bills, Colts, Giants, Commanders