2024 NFL All-Free Agent Team: Antoine Winfield Jr., Chris Jones Headline Top Available Veterans
As the 2024 NFL season approaches, teams are gearing up to negotiate with unrestricted free agents starting March 11. While some players have already been taken off the market due to franchise tags or long-term extensions, there is still a plethora of Pro Bowl-caliber veterans available on both sides of the ball. Let’s take a look at the 2024 All-Free Agent Team, a lineup consisting solely of standout players with expiring deals.
Offense:
The offense boasts some impressive talent, but one notable absence is Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins. He was the first unrestricted veteran to receive the franchise tag this offseason, tying him to his team through 2024. However, there are still plenty of offensive stars expected to hit the market and field offers from around the NFL.
One player to watch is quarterback Kirk Cousins. As the game’s most important position, Cousins is a big domino that could shake up the market. While both he and the Minnesota Vikings would like to stick together, there is a good reason for both sides to explore alternatives. Cousins’ track record suggests he’ll command a top-level contract, making him an attractive option for QB-needy teams like the Atlanta Falcons.
On the offensive line, longtime Philadelphia Eagles stalwart Jason Kelce is technically the standard-setter at center. However, if he doesn’t retire, he’s likely to re-sign with the Eagles, leaving him off this list. The offensive line options are slim this year, with aging or injury-prone tackles making the cut. Teams rarely let go of their top blockers.
The running back position is also intriguing, with a rich crop of players vying for attention in a depressed market. Saquon Barkley remains a dynamic threat despite his spotty durability. Other options include Derrick Henry, known for his size and power, and Josh Jacobs, who brings explosiveness to the field. Each of these backs has the potential to be a star, but their shelf life is up for debate.
Defense:
The defense is stacked with high-profile talent, particularly in the front seven. However, it’s likely that many of these players will be restricted from testing the market, either through franchise tags or contract extensions. Still, there are plenty of viable options at edge rusher and defensive line who will draw heavy interest if they become available.
Players like Danielle Hunter, Leonard Williams, Bryce Huff, and Christian Wilkins are among the difference-makers in the front seven who could hit the market. Even players like Brian Burns, who may receive a franchise tag from the Carolina Panthers, could be trade candidates as teams look to bolster their offensive weaponry.
One interesting aspect to watch is how teams prioritize their own top-tier free agents. For example, the Kansas City Chiefs may tag cornerback L’Jarius Sneed if they reach a long-term deal with Chris Jones. But if that deal doesn’t happen, Jones would likely be the priority, leaving Sneed to command lucrative money from other teams in need of a cornerback. Similarly, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers value safety Antoine Winfield Jr., but with Baker Mayfield also requiring a new deal, one of those three players is likely to hit the market.
Special Teams:
While special teams moves may not be as flashy as offensive or defensive signings, there are still notable players available. Kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn has been extremely steady for the Houston Texans, ranking seventh among active kickers in career field-goal conversions. His impressive 2023 season saw him convert 96.4% of his three-point tries. Punter Tommy Townsend has been an All-Pro honoree and played a crucial role in the Kansas City Chiefs’ two Super Bowl runs.
As negotiations begin and teams scramble to secure top talent, the 2024 NFL free agency promises to be an exciting time for both players and fans. The All-Free Agent Team showcases the caliber of players available, and it will be interesting to see where they land and the impact they make in the upcoming season.