There are still some big-name NFL free agents on the market heading into the summer months. We’re also expecting teams to be active on this front now that the compensatory formula is no longer in the equation.
That is to say, teams can sign free agents without it impacting the compensatory picks they receive in the 2024 NFL Draft. For contending teams that utilize this as a team-building method, this is no small thing.
From a couple stud veteran edge rushers to one of the best running backs and wide receivers of the modern era, there are NFL free agents that can still help teams heading into training camp. Below, we look at the top-25 currently available and their ideal landing spots.
1. DeAndre Hopkins, wide receiver
The Arizona Cardinals’ decision to release Hopkins didn’t surprise many. They failed to find a trade partner for the high-priced Pro Bowl wide receiver. However, it is somewhat surprising that Hopkins has not been met with a strong free-agent market.
We’re hearing the five-time Pro Bowler being linked to the Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, Houston Texans and Cleveland Browns. Of those four teams, Cleveland makes the most sense. Hopkins would be reuniting with his former Texans teammate, Deshaun Watson. Meanwhile, there is a need at wide receiver behind Amari Cooper in Cleveland.
Ideal DeAndre Hopkins landing spot: Cleveland Browns
2. Dalvin Cook, running back
Dalvin Cook has been among the most consistently good running backs in the NFL for some time. That’s why it was surprising that the Minnesota Vikings released him in a pure salary cap move.
We’re talking about a back who put up nearly 1,500 total yards and 10 touchdowns a season ago. Since the start of the 2019 season, the 27-year-old Cook is averaging 1,605 yards and 11 touchdowns at a clip o 5.2 yards per touch.
One team obviously comes to mind as a likely landing spot. The Miami Dolphins were linked to Cook in a trade earlier this offseason. Head coach Mike McDaniel has made it clear that there’s interest on this front. Expect something to happen ahead of training camp.
Ideal Dalvin Cook landing spot: Miami Dolphins