As the NFL's free agency period is set to open on Monday, the focus is on the quarterback carousel and the top players available at various positions.
Kirk Cousins, who will be a free agent for the first time since signing a fully-guaranteed deal with the Vikings, may draw interest from QB-needy teams like Atlanta. Baker Mayfield is expected to stay with Tampa Bay after a successful season, while Russell Wilson is set to make another move after being informed of his release by the Broncos.
Among the top players available are All-Pro defensive tackle Chris Jones, edge rushers Danielle Hunter and Chase Young, safeties Justin Simmons and Xavier McKinney, and cornerbacks Xavien Howard and Tre’Davious White. On the offensive side, running backs Saquon Barkley and Derrick Henry, offensive tackles Tyron Smith and Jonah Williams, and wide receivers Calvin Ridley and Odell Beckham Jr. are among the notable names.
Eight players received the non-exclusive franchise tag, including wide receivers Tee Higgins and Michael Pittman, edge rusher Josh Allen, and safety Antoine Winfield. Teams interested in signing them would have to give up a pair of first-round picks.
The running back position is also generating interest, with teams evaluating the value of players like Barkley, Henry, and others. The Giants seem ready to move on from Barkley, while Henry could be a target for Super Bowl contenders.
As the frenzy of free agency begins, teams with ample salary cap space are poised to make significant moves. The quarterback market remains lucrative, with Cousins, Mayfield, and Wilson among the notable names expected to draw attention.
Stay tuned as more quality players could become available over the weekend, adding to the excitement of the NFL's offseason.
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