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Top 101 NFL Free Agents

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Top 101 NFL free agents of 2022: Seven players still available after Dolphins add Trey Flowers

EDITOR'S NOTE: This article, originally published on Feb. 28, 2022, will be updated as the free agents on the list below are signed or notable players hit the open market. As players agree to deals and come off the market, they will be moved to the bottom portion of this list.

The 2022 NFL free agency class is deeper than it is flashy. I've never had to leave so many quality options out of the Top 101, even if the top end of this list doesn't have many young players in their prime. The NFL is increasingly a one-year contract league, and this ranking reflects that with a lot of familiar names.

NOTE: Each player's listed age represents how old he will be on Sept. 8, when the 2022 NFL season is poised to kick off.

BEST NFL FREE AGENTS AVAILABLE

Rank
11
Odell Beckham
WR · Age: 29

It makes sense for Beckham to stay in Los Angeles and rehab with the Rams after tearing his ACL in the Super Bowl. If I was an opposing general manager, though, I'd offer Beckham a strong long-term deal with guaranteed money now, because it would pay off in Years 2 and 3. Talents like Beckham aren't often available. 

Rank
49
Will Fuller
WR · Age: 28

Fuller missed time in 2021 due to a PED suspension, a personal issue and a broken finger. It’s safe to say there are red flags, but the man sure can run fast! 

Rank
50
Eric Fisher
OT · Age: 31

Fisher took his first snaps as a Colt just eight months removed from tearing his Achilles and had his worst season since his rookie year. That could make him a better value this offseason. 

Rank
79
Sheldon Richardson
DT · Age: 31

Seems like no one has been on more of our Top 101 lists over the years than Richardson, who still delivers professional snaps on a year-to-year basis. Well, unless it’s this next guy … 

Rank
80
Ndamukong Suh
DL · Age: 35

I admittedly have a soft spot for Suh, who was absolutely the Bucs' best defensive player in their playoff loss to the Rams. He still shows up in big moments.

Rank
92
Kevin King
CB · Age: 27

It’s a shame King got hurt last season, because he looked at home under first-year Packers defensive coordinator Joe Barry.

Rank
97
Dont'a Hightower
LB · Age: 32

It took Hightower a while to knock off the rust following his year off. His bigger issue is how the game has changed to target players like him in pass coverage, but his leadership and intelligence are both off the charts. 

OFF THE MARKET

Rank
1
Terron Armstead
OT · Age: 31

Armstead's injury history makes him a complicated evaluation. He's missed at least six games in five of his nine seasons, but when he plays, he's one of the five best left tackles in football. It is extremely rare for a tackle this good with an impeccable reputation as a leader to become available, for any reason, especially with good years still in front of him.


UPDATE: Armstead signed a five-year, $75 million deal that has a max value of $87.5 million with the Miami Dolphins, per NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo.

Rank
2
J.C. Jackson
CB · Age: 26

Jackson has improved in each of his four NFL seasons so far. He was already worth plenty after getting off to one of the greatest ballhawking starts to a career ever (25 picks), and now he's also one of the best pure man-coverage corners in the league on a down-to-down basis. It is curious, however, the Patriots didn't use the franchise tag on him.


UPDATE: Jackson signed a five-year, $82.5 million deal (including $40 million guaranteed) with the Los Angeles Chargers, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport and NFL Network's Mike Garafolo reported.

Rank
3
Von Miller
Edge · Age: 33

Miller's numbers in the 2021 playoffs (four sacks, 22 pressures) were almost identical to what he posted in the 2015 playoffs (five sacks, 23 pressures), which ended with him being named MVP of Super Bowl 50. His run defense was also superb. No player made himself more money in the postseason. 


UPDATE: Miller signed a six-year, $120 million contract with the Bills that averages $17.5 million per year through the first four years, per NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

Rank
4
Carlton Davis
CB · Age: 25

Bucs coaches always talked about Davis like a true No. 1 cornerback. He looks like one on film, like the type of prospect that would get taken with a top-15 pick in the draft. Perhaps he hasn't played quite to a Pro Bowl level yet, but there aren't many cornerbacks who have sustained his high level of play while also demonstrating prototypical skills over the last three years. He's about to become very rich if the Bucs use the franchise tag on Chris Godwin


UPDATE: Davis re-signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on a three-year, $45 million deal with $30 million guaranteed, per NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

Rank
5
Chandler Jones
Edge · Age: 32

Even if he's not at his absolute peak as a pass rusher, Jones can juice up any defensive line on a short-term deal.


UPDATE: Jones signed a deal with the Las Vegas Raiders that will pay him roughly $52.5 million over three years with $34 million guaranteed, per NFL Network's Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport.

Rank
6
Tyrann Mathieu
S · Age: 30

This is my second year making this list without my great friend Chris Wesseling, and I heard his voice so clearly after I initially ranked Mathieu lower. It's hard to put a price on the intelligence, competitiveness and coverage ability Honey Badger brings, but those traits explain how he's set to get the third big, long-term deal of his career, despite being an undersized safety drafted in the third round. Wess was early to see Mathieu's ferocious, versatile style for the transformative force that it was. Like so many people who crossed paths with Wess over the years, Mathieu returned the love.  


UPDATE: Mathieu is signing a three-year, $33 million deal with the New Orleans Saints, according to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

Rank
7
Marcus Williams
S · Age: 26

Note that this is not a ranking of how much money each player will make. I appear to value top safeties more than NFL general managers do, and there are few safeties better and steadier than Williams.


UPDATE: Williams signed with the Baltimore Ravens on a five-year, $70 million deal that includes $37 million guaranteed, per NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

Rank
8
Allen Robinson
WR · Age: 29

Was Robinson's decline in 2021 mostly due to his situation? This ranking assumes that to be the case, because he was a borderline top-10 receiver until a discouraging season where it appeared he was playing out the string in Chicago.


UPDATE: Robinson signed with the Los Angeles Rams on a three-year, $46.5 million contract that includes $30.7 million guaranteed, per NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.

Rank
9
Emmanuel Ogbah
Edge · Age: 28

If Ogbah had been drafted No. 1 overall, like Jadeveon Clowney, or played for the Cowboys, like Randy Gregory, this ranking wouldn't be surprising. Ogbah has been producing like a star for years, without the recognition. 


UPDATE: Ogbah re-signed with the Miami Dolphins on a four-year, $65.4 million deal that will pay him $32.7 million over the first two years, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero reported.

Rank
10
Brandon Scherff
OG · Age: 30

Like a larger version of Kirk Cousins, Scherff is finally going to hit free agency after being slapped with back-to-back franchise tags by Washington. Also like Cousins, I expect him to leave on a massive deal. Injuries are part of the equation (24 missed games in the last five years), but that shouldn't stop teams from competing for the services of a five-time Pro Bowler.


UPDATE: Scherff signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars on a three-year, $49.5 million deal that includes $30 million fully guaranteed, per NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.

Rank
12
Stephon Gilmore
CB · Age: 31

One could have ranked Gilmore either too high or too low. I wimped out in the middle, because the veteran corner is such a mystery. He was graded well by Pro Football Focus last year, but he never looked explosive physically in the eight games he played with the Panthers, mostly on limited snap counts -- and then he hurt his groin.


UPDATE: Gilmore signed with the Indianapolis Colts on a two-year, $20 million deal with a max value of $23 million, per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero. The deal includes $10.51 million fully guaranteed and $14 million in total guarantees. Gilmore will receive a Year 1 payout of $10.02 million

Rank
13
La'el Collins
OT · Age: 28

Collins has durability concerns but he's a top-10 right tackle with elite traits when he's out there.


UPDATE: Collins signed a three-year deal with the Cincinnati Bengals, the team announced.

Rank
14
Duane Brown
OT · Age: 37

Brown solved the Seahawks' left tackle problem in 2017; he probably had his worst year in Seattle last season before hitting free agency. He'll turn 37 years old before the 2022 campaign kicks off, and he probably won't continue to command top-tier money, but he shouldn't be that far off.


UPDATE: Brown is signing a two-year deal worth $22 million with the Jets, NFL Network Insiders Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport reported.

Rank
15
Jameis Winston
QB · Age: 28

Winston tore his ACL just when he was starting to click in Sean Payton's Saints offense. The ceiling of the former No. 1 overall pick is easily higher than those of the rest of the free-agent quarterbacks, and he proved last year he can succeed while playing with more caution. 


UPDATE: Winston is re-signed with the Saints on a two-year, $28 million deal that includes $21 million in guarantees, per NFL Network's Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport.

Rank
16
Randy Gregory
Edge · Age: 29

Gregory was an All-Pro candidate before suffering a calf injury in Week 9, after which he never quite looked the same. He underwent knee surgery after the season. Betting on 16 games is a bit much, but he's a difference-maker when right. 


UPDATE: Although initially expected to re-join the Cowboys, Gregory instead signed with the Denver Broncos on a five-year, $70 million deal that includes $28 million guaranteed, according to NFL Network's Mike Garafolo.

Rank
17
Bobby Wagner
LB · Age: 32

Wagner, like Russell Wilson, showed signs of decline the last two years. He is the rare linebacker who doesn’t come off the field; though, his coverage skills have taken a hit. Still, he'd upgrade most middle linebacker spots, and the instant leadership, smarts and credibility he’d bring is hard to measure. The Cowboys and Rams both make sense as fits.


UPDATE: Wagner signed with the L.A. Rams on what is functionally a two-year deal worth $17.5 million in base salary with another $23.5 million possible in incentives. If Wagner hits his incentives, he can opt-out of the deal and become a free agent again, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported.

Rank
18
James Bradberry
CB · Age: 29

Bradberry was a Pro Bowler in 2020, is only turning 29 this year and has missed two games in the last five years combined. Don't overthink this one!


UPDATE: Bradberry signed a one-year, $10 million deal with the Philadelphia Eagles, per NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

Rank
19
Jadeveon Clowney
Edge · Age: 29

After seven seasons where his sack totals didn't reflect his true value, Clowney's year in Cleveland went in the other direction, with his nine sacks masking what was probably his most up-and-down campaign. It's worth wondering if all the injuries have taken a toll.


UPDATE: Clowney re-signed with the Cleveland Browns on a one-year, $10 million deal with an additional $1 million available in incentives, per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero.

Rank
20
De'Vondre Campbell
LB · Age: 29

It’s amazing what the right scheme and position can do. Campbell moved to middle linebacker in Green Bay, which unlocked his versatility and playmaking to an All-Pro level. He should be a priority signing for the Packers after they searched for years for a player just like him.


UPDATE: Campbell re-signed with the Green Bay Packers on a five-year deal worth $50 million, according to the NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

Rank
21
Za'Darius Smith
Edge · Age: 30

Smith is a tricky evaluation. He was probably the best free-agent signing by the Packers since Reggie White for two seasons as a game-wrecker, and then missed nearly all of the 2021 season with a back injury amid grumblings about his contract. There’s a big risk-reward here someone should take a swing at.


UPDATE: Smith signed with the Minnesota Vikings on a three-year, $42 million deal that has a max value of $47 million, per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero.

Rank
22
Calais Campbell
DL · Age: 36

There is no explanation for why Campbell is still this effective at his age, but he's been "one of one" since he entered the league in 2008 and is worthy of another big one-year contract.


UPDATE: Campbell re-signed with the Baltimore Ravens on a two-year, $12.5 million deal worth up to $16.5 million with incentives, per NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

Rank
23
James Daniels
OG · Age: 24

One truism that has remained constant in all the years of ranking free agents: Above-average starting guards entering their second contract make huge money. It can only help that Daniels has center flexibility.


UPDATE: Daniels signed a three-year, $26.5 million deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers, according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero and Mike Garafolo.

Rank
24
Haason Reddick
Edge · Age: 27

Reddick's 23.5 sacks in the last two seasons can't be wrong, although he did fail to generate much of a market last year. His total pressures in that span (99) aren't as high as expected, but when he wins, he wins so quickly. 


UPDATE: Reddick signed a three-year, $45 million deal that includes $30 million fully guaranteed and has a max value of $49.5 million, per NFL Network's Mike Garafolo.


Rank
25
Melvin Ingram
Edge · Age: 33

It was weird when the Steelers gave up on Ingram during the 2021 season. It was familiar to see Ingram become a game-wrecker for the Chiefs down the stretch.


UPDATE: Ingram signed a one-year, $5 million deal with the Miami Dolphins, per NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

Rank
26
Rob Gronkowski
TE · Age: 33

It's unclear if Gronk will play again, but he could. His run-blocking is the only part of his game that didn't come with him to Tampa, and they don't pay you for run-blocking. 


UPDATE: Gronkowski announced Tuesday that he again is retiring from the NFL after 11 seasons with the Patriots and Buccaneers.

Rank
27
Jarvis Landry
WR · Age: 29

The lack of receivers in this free agent market will help Landry out. He’s a great secondary receiver that will do all the dirty work and become a quarterback’s best friend on third downs. Still just 29, he only missed one game in seven seasons before an injury-marred 2021.


UPDATE: Landy is signing a one-year deal with the Saints worth up to $6 million, per NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.

Rank
28
Joe Noteboom
OT · Age: 27

He's been excellent as a blind-side pass protector in nearly 1,000 combined snaps over the last two seasons. There's no reason to think he can't do it as a starter, which is why I wouldn't be surprised if he gets a big deal to stay with the Rams, assuming Andrew Whitworth retires.


UPDATE: Noteboom re-signed with the Rams on a three-year, $40 million deal that includes $25 million guaranteed and has a max value of $47.5 million, per NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

Rank
29
Fletcher Cox
DT · Age: 31

The Eagles want to bring Cox back after releasing him Thursday, according to NFL Network's Mike Garafolo. They should have competition. He can still rush the passer, even if he's not still at his All-Pro level.


UPDATE: Cox re-signed with the Philadelphia Eagles on a one-year deal worth $14 million, per NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

Rank
30
Teddy Bridgewater
QB · Age: 29

I've written and talked about Bridgewater so many times that even I'm sick of hearing myself. He's just a tick under league average for a starting quarterback, and he would improve plenty of rosters, even if he's not a permanent solution.


UPDATE: Bridgewater signed with the Miami Dolphins on a one-year, $6.5 million deal that is worth up to $10 million with incentives, NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reported.

Rank
31
D.J. Jones
DT · Age: 27

Jones is a projection, but he excelled in his fifth season with the 49ers after earning more snaps. In a very thin free-agent class of defensive tackles, he has the best combination of youth, experience and potential.


UPDATE: Jones signed a three-year contract worth $30 million ($20 million guaranteed) with the Broncos, according to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

Rank
32
Jerry Hughes
Edge · Age: 34

There are a lot of aging, effective defensive linemen available who can still get it done on a short-term deal. That market has proven to be among the most underpaid in free agency relative to production for years, and Hughes fits the criteria perfectly.


UPDATE: Hughes signed a free-agent deal with the Houston Texans, the team announced.

Rank
33
Quandre Diggs
S · Age: 29

Diggs was clearly the Seahawks' best safety last season. It's a little awkward.


UPDATE: Diggs re-signed with the Seahawks on a three-year, $40 million deal, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported.

Rank
34
Akiem Hicks
DL · Age: 32

Hicks' signing in 2016 was one of the best free-agent deals of the last decade. He's down a peg from his peak and has struggled to stay on the field, but he'd be great as a role player; just don't expect star production.


UPDATE: Hicks is signing with the Buccaneers on a one-year contract worth up to $10 million, NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reported.

Rank
35
Marcus Maye
S · Age: 29

A torn Achilles came at an awful time for Maye, who didn't look that comfortable in Robert Saleh's system before the injury. He was performing like a top-10 safety in 2019 and 2020.


UPDATE: Maye signed with the New Orleans Saints on a three-year, $28.5 million deal that includes $15 million guaranteed, according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.

Rank
36
Bradley Bozeman
C · Age: 27

Reliable young interior linemen are hard to find, and Bozeman is coming off his best season, just in time to hit free agency. He found a home at center after playing guard previously.


UPDATE: Bozeman signed a one-year contract with the Carolina Panthers.

Rank
37
Russell Gage
WR · Age: 26

Russell Gage was such a stone-cold badass down the stretch of last season that I felt bad for how little I thought about Russell Gage before that.


UPDATE: Gage has signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the team announced.

Rank
38
Ben Jones
C · Age: 33

Jones has only missed one game in 10 NFL seasons. Basically, he’s Ryan Jensen without the hype, dirty plays or ass sweat


UPDATE: Jones re-signed with the Tennessee Titans on a two-year, $14 million deal, per NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

Rank
39
JuJu Smith-Schuster
WR · Age: 25

Yes, that 1,400-yard season feels like a distant memory. JuJu will probably have to build up his value on a one-year deal with a functioning offense. Hint: Don’t turn down Patrick Mahomes again. 


UPDATE: Smith-Schuster signed a one-year, $10.75 million contract with the Chiefs, per NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

Rank
40
Trent Brown
OT · Age: 29

He’s a Pro Bowl, field-tilting talent if he’s healthy, if he’s motivated, if he’s with Bill Belichick. He has more value to the Patriots than anyone else -- and even for New England, he’s a big risk. 


UPDATE: Brown re-signed with the Patriots on a two-year, $22 million deal that includes $4 million guaranteed, per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero.

Rank
41
D.J. Reed
CB · Age: 25

A fifth-round pick of San Francisco in 2018, Reed emerged over the last season and a half in Seattle as an outside cornerback who makes up for his size with incredible competitiveness. He reads the ball so well and is a blast to watch. 


UPDATE: Reed signed a three-year, $33 million deal with the New York Jets, per NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.

Rank
42
Christian Kirk
WR · Age: 25

Should I be disappointed he didn’t develop into something more in Arizona, or recognize that every great passing attack needs three to four receivers, and Kirk is a high-octane No. 3 option at worst? 


UPDATE: Kirk signed a four-year, $72 million deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars that includes $37 million fully guaranteed and has a max value of $84 million, per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero.

Rank
43
Darious Williams
CB · Age: 29

While Williams didn’t match his breakout 2020 season again in 2021, he held up just fine as the dude everyone throws at because he’s not Jalen Ramsey. He’s a solid, scrappy starter with good ball skills. 


UPDATE: Williams signed a three-year, $30 million deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars that includes $18 million fully guaranteed and has a max value of $39 million, per NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

Rank
44
Trey Flowers
DE · Age: 29

Flowers was unable to stay healthy the last two seasons, but he'll only be 29 years old this fall and had a PFF grade over 80 in every season between 2017-2020, making him one of the most consistent defensive linemen in football. He should still have good football left in him in the right scheme.


UPDATE: Flowers has signed a one-year, $2.1 million deal with the Miami Dolphins that has a max value of $3 million, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported.

Rank
45
JC Tretter
C · Age: 31

The stalwart center barely practiced all season because of knee and ankle injuries, but you wouldn’t have known it after he logged 1,000-plus quality snaps for the fifth straight year (per PFF). He’s unquestionably still an above-average starter, which is not easy to find.


UPDATE: Tretter announced his retirement from the NFL after nine seasons.

Rank
46
Cordarrelle Patterson
RB/WR · Age: 31

I want to rank him higher. But after nearly a decade of watching four other teams use Patterson so poorly, I don’t trust him as an offensive threat anywhere but with Falcons coach Arthur Smith.


UPDATE: Patterson re-signed with the Atlanta Falcons on a two-year deal, per the team.

Rank
47
Evan Engram
TE · Age: 28

The Giants could never unlock Engram’s full potential and he hasn’t been durable, but someone is going to fall in love with those movement skills. I did, and I refuse to take the L.


UPDATE: Engram signed a one-year deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars, per NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

Rank
48
Laken Tomlinson
OG · Age: 30

The former Lions afterthought rebuilt his career in San Francisco as a premier run-blocker. He would fit perfectly in any of the Shanahan-like offenses around the league.


UPDATE: Tomlinson signed a three-year, $40 million deal with the New York Jets that includes $27 million guaranteed and has a max value of $41.2 million, NFL Network's Mike Garafolo reported.

Rank
51
Connor Williams
OG · Age: 25

Williams' PFF grade has improved significantly over his last three seasons. Cowboys fans and smart analysts are consistently less impressed. The truth is usually in the middle, though Williams always seems to underperform in big moments.


UPDATE: Williams signed with the Miami Dolphins on a two-year, $14 million deal that includes $7.5 million fully guaranteed. (Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport)

Rank
52
Bilal Nichols
DL · Age: 25

He can shoot gaps or occupy blockers and plays multiple positions. I love versatile defensive linemen who can fit in most systems.


UPDATE: Nichols signed with the Las Vegas Raiders on a two-year, $11 million deal with $9 million guaranteed, according to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

Rank
53
Rasul Douglas
CB · Age: 27

Cornerback is an inherently volatile position. That’s how Douglas could get cut twice last year ... before getting plucked off the Cardinals' practice squad by the Packers and going on to have one of the best seasons of any cornerback in football. He probably won’t repeat it, but above-average starter play is a reasonable expectation. 


UPDATE: Douglas re-signed with the Green Bay Packers on a three-year deal worth $21 million with a max value of $25.5 million, per NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

Rank
54
Julio Jones
WR · Age: 33

There were moments in Tennessee where Julio looked like Julio Jones. But he was only healthy enough to catch 31 passes one year after catching just 51 the year before for the Falcons. He has barely practiced in the last three years, so it's a leap of faith, but the upside for high-level No. 2 receiver production is still there if his body is right.


UPDATE: Jones signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on a one-year, $6 million deal with a max value of $8 million, per NFL Network's Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport.

Rank
55
Bryce Callahan
CB · Age: 30

Callahan is one of the league's better slot corners when he’s available. His size (5-9, 188) and possibly related injury history are the only reasons he’s not ranked higher. 


UPDATE: Callahan signed a free-agent deal with the Los Angeles Chargers, per the team.

Rank
56
Alex Cappa
OG · Age: 27

The Bucs will be more desperate to keep Cappa following Ali Marpet’s surprise retirement


UPDATE: Cappa signed a four-year deal with the Cincinnati Bengals, per NFL Network's James Palmer. The deal, which has a base value of $35 million, includes $20 million over the first two years and has $1 million in Pro Bowl incentives for each season, NFL Network's Mike Garafolo added.

Rank
57
D.J. Chark
WR · Age: 25

Chark’s 2019 season showed his upside. His speed makes him a good fit as a No. 2 receiver on a lot of offenses. 


UPDATE: Chark signed a one-year, $10 million deal with the Lions that is fully guaranteed, per NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

Rank
58
James Conner
RB · Age: 27

Conner’s fantasy value was even greater than his real-world value. His receiving skills make him a strong three-down option.


UPDATE: Conner re-signed with the Cardinals on a three-year, $21 million extension that includes $16 million over the first two years, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport and NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reported.

Rank
59
DeShon Elliott
S · Age: 25

Now we are at the part of the list where I've ranked certain players I believe in -- like Elliott -- higher than you might find them in another free-agent rundown. Elliott added so much toughness to the Ravens' secondary when he took over as a starter in 2020. He sat out most of last year with a biceps and pectoral injury, and the Ravens missed him greatly. 


UPDATE: Elliott is signing a one-year deal with the Detroit Lions, according to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

Rank
60
Anthony Barr
OLB · Age: 30

The game-changing splash plays are mostly gone. Still, Barr is the rare linebacker who can rush, tackle and cover, barely leaving the field.


UPDATE: Barr has agreed with the Dallas Cowboys on a one-year deal worth up to $3 million, NFL Network Insiders Mike Garafolo and Ian Rapoport reported.

Packers fans who think they are going to sneak MVS back on to the roster may be disappointed by the size of his market.


UPDATE: Valdes-Scantling signed with the Kansas City Chiefs on a three-year, $30 million deal that has a max value of $36 million, per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero.

Rank
62
Foley Fatukasi
DT · Age: 27

A rolling ball of butcher knives, Fatukasi can rush the passer and stop the run. He’s a fun breakout candidate.


UPDATE: Fatukasi signed a three-year, $30 million deal with the Jaguars that includes $20 million fully guaranteed, per NFL Network's Mike Garafolo.

Rank
63
Justin Reid
S · Age: 25

Injuries and a benching for "disciplinary reasons" soured Reid’s 2021 season. I can’t forget the incredible potential he showed in 2018 and '19, when he was one of the best young safeties in the league. 


UPDATE: Reid signed a three-year, $31.5 million deal that includes $20 million guaranteed, per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero.

Rank
64
Justin Houston
Edge · Age: 33

It took Houston a while to find a job last year, and then he landed in Baltimore, where he outplayed most of his younger Ravens teammates -- same as it ever was.


UPDATE: Houston agreed to terms on a one-year deal to return to the Baltimore Ravens, according to the team.

Rank
65
Rashaad Penny
RB · Age: 26

After three-plus seasons as a testament to Seahawks general manager John Schneider’s weird drafting, Penny played like a poor man’s Derrick Henry down the stretch. I want him to stay in Seattle, because there was something special brewing there.


UPDATE: Penny has re-signed with the Seattle Seahawks on a one-year, $5.75 million deal that has a max value of $6.5 million, per NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

Rank
66
Jordan Whitehead
S · Age: 25

Whether making punishing hits or covering well for a safety, Whitehead has been surprisingly dependable as a starter for four seasons. The fourth-round pick has earned his payday. 


UPDATE: Whitehead signed a two-year deal worth $14.5 million with the Jets, per NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

Rank
67
Casey Hayward
CB · Age: 32

Hayward should follow Gus Bradley to Indianapolis. He excelled under the defensive coordinator with the Chargers and revived his career with him in Las Vegas.


UPDATE: Hayward signed a two-year, $11 million contract with the Falcons, per NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

Rank
68
Leonard Fournette
RB · Age: 27

Fournette’s third-down skills have improved so much that he doesn’t ever need to be taken off the field.


UPDATE: Fournette is re-signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on a three-year, $21 million contract with a max value of $24 million, per NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

Rank
69
Melvin Gordon
RB · Age: 29

There aren’t many three-down running backs who offer Gordon’s ability to win in short yardage and on third downs without sacrificing big-play ability. 


UPDATE: Gordon has re-signed with the Denver Broncos on a one-year deal worth up to $5 million, per NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

Rank
70
Derek Barnett
Edge · Age: 26

A good-not-great first-round pick who never improved that much as a pass rusher, Barnett always seems to have a few killer personal foul penalties each year. 


UPDATE: Barnett re-signed with the Philadelphia Eagles on a two-year deal, per NFL Network's Mike Garafolo.

Rank
71
Jayron Kearse
S · Age: 28

I can’t quite believe I’m ranking Kearse this high, but I also can’t quite believe how great of a find he was for Dan Quinn in Dallas last year. 


UPDATE: Kearse re-signed with the Dallas Cowboys on a two-year, $10 million deal that has a max value of $11 million, per NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

Rank
72
Donte Jackson
CB · Age: 26

Jackson is a boom-or-bust corner whose physical style and top-end playmaking could still be fully unlocked if he finds the right fit. He’s the type of corner who could pop up with a random Pro Bowl season at some point.


UPDATE: Jackson re-signed with the Carolina Panthers on a three-year, $31.5 million contract, per NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

Rank
73
Kyzir White
LB · Age: 26

White was a leader on the 2021 Chargers' defense, flying around and communicating. I’d be surprised if they let him go after such a breakout season. 


UPDATE: White signed with the Philadelphia Eagles on a one-year deal worth up to $5 million, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported.

Rank
74
Arden Key
Edge · Age: 26

If I was an agent for a defensive lineman, I would make my client sign with the 49ers, because everyone who goes there makes the most of their opportunities. Key was a beast down the stretch last season. 


UPDATE: Key signed a one-year contract worth up to $7 million with the Jacksonville Jaguars, per NFL Network's Mike Garafolo.

Rank
75
Uchenna Nwosu
Edge · Age: 25

While Nwosu never quite materialized into the ideal running mate for Joey Bosa, he had five sacks and 40 total pressures last season. That’s consistent with his career of above-average flashes as a pass rusher.


UPDATE: Nwosu signed a two-year, 20-million deal with the Seattle Seahawks that includes $10.5 million fully guaranteed, per NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

One of Rams GM Les Snead’s many productive Day 3 draft picks, Joseph-Day can stuff the run and create havoc as a rotational defensive tackle. 


UPDATE: Joseph-Day signed a three-year, $24 million contract with the Los Angeles Chargers that includes $15 million fully guaranteed, per NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.


Rank
77
B.J. Hill
DL · Age: 27

The former Giant was excellent for the Bengals, especially in the playoffs. He was undoubtedly an upgrade over starter Larry Ogunjobi and should be brought back.


UPDATE: Hill re-signed with the Cincinnati Bengals on a three-year, $30 million deal that includes $15 million in Year 1, according to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

Rank
78
O.J. Howard
TE · Age: 27

Howard was clearly not close to his former self in his first season back from an Achilles tear. His physical style is worth taking a chance on, because the upside is so great.


UPDATE: Howard signed a one-year contract with the Bills, per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

Rank
81
Patrick Peterson
CB · Age: 32

Mike Zimmer asked a lot of Peterson, and the former All-Pro delivered plenty for a veteran on a pricey one-year deal. He’s earned another. 


UPDATE: Peterson has re-signed with the Minnesota Vikings, he announced on the All Things Covered podcast. NFL Network's Mike Garafolo added it's a one-year, $4 million contract with $3.5 million guaranteed and $1 million more available in incentives.

Rank
82
Jamison Crowder
WR · Age: 29

It’s hard to blame Crowder too much for his dip in production with the Jets. Slot receiver skill sets often age well, so it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Crowder catch 80 passes again in the right setting.


UPDATE: Crowder signed a one-year contract worth up to $4 million with the Bills, per NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.

Rank
83
Foye Oluokun
LB · Age: 27

 A revelation in 2021, Oluokun can make big hits and big plays as an inside linebacker. He's a good fit in a Patriots-style defense.


UPDATE: Oluokun signed a three-year, $45 million deal with the Jaguars that includes $28 million fully guaranteed and has a max value of $46.5 million, according to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

Rank
84
Chase Edmonds
RB · Age: 26

Edmonds can run routes like a receiver and make defenders miss. You don’t need to have more than 150 touches to have plenty of value.


UPDATE: Edmonds signed with the Dolphins on a two-year, $12.6 million contract that includes $6.1 million guaranteed, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported.

Rank
85
Myles Jack
LB · Age: 27

Jack was so dynamic in his second and third seasons in Jacksonville that I can't give up on him at his age. I’m placing blame for a lot of his struggles during the last few seasons on bad coaching; he has a skill set that could thrive in the right system.


UPDATE: Jack signed a two-year contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers, per the team.

Rank
86
Morgan Moses
OT · Age: 31

The former Washington starter was a godsend for the Jets, capably starting at right tackle while George Fant filled in for Mekhi Becton on the left side.


UPDATE: Moses signed with the Baltimore Ravens on a three-year, $15 million deal, per NFL Network's Mike Garafolo.

Rank
87
Tracy Walker
S · Age: 27

The Lions want to bring back Walker, who had the best season of an ascending career under defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn.


UPDATE: Walker re-signed with the Lions on a three-year, $25 million deal that includes $17 million guaranteed, per NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.

Rank
88
Austin Corbett
OG · Age: 27

If assistant coaches under Sean McVay get paid, why not starting guards who played more than 2,100 offensive snaps in the last two seasons combined? 


UPDATE: Corbett signed a three-year deal worth $29.25 million with the Carolina Panthers, per NFL Network's Tom Pelissero and Mike Garafolo.

Rank
89
Charvarius Ward
CB · Age: 26

Ward is that guy the Chiefs were seemingly always looking to replace, who overachieved season after season (53 total starts) since going undrafted in 2018.


UPDATE: Ward signed a three-year, $40.5 million deal with the San Francisco 49ers, per NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

Rank
90
Bryan Anger
P · Age: 33

Could I interest you in the best (or second-best) punter in the NFL last year? 


UPDATE: Anger re-signed with the Dallas Cowboys on a three-year, $9 million deal, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported.

Rank
91
Xavier Woods
S · Age: 27

The former Cowboy only looks better as a free agent after one upper-middle class season in Minnesota.


UPDATE: Woods signed a three-year, $15.75 million contract with the Carolina Panthers, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported.

Rank
93
Marcus Mariota
QB · Age: 28

I would have loved to see him start a game in Las Vegas, but that dependable Derek Carr was too darn dependable. Mariota is at the top of the backup quarterback pile, but the fact that he got injured in such limited playing time with the Raiders is a red flag. 


UPDATE: Mariota signed a two-year contract with the Atlanta Falcons, NFL Network's Mike Garafolo reported. Mariota receives a $1.75 million guaranteed base salary and $5 million signing bonus in 2022, as well as a $12 million option for 2023, NFL Network's Tom Pelissero added.

Rank
94
Larry Ogunjobi
DT · Age: 28

Ogunjobi is that guy who gives up a lot while searching for his own splash plays, one reason he could be on his third team in as many years. 


UPDATE: Ogunjobi has signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers on a one-year deal worth up to $8 million with incentives, per NFL Network's Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport.

Rank
95
Matthew Ioannidis
DT · Age: 28

Washington never seemed to maximize Ioannidis' pass-rush chops. He's coming off a down year, but can provide interior push at a reasonable price.


UPDATE: Ioannidis signed a one-year deal with the Carolina Panthers, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported.

Rank
96
P.J. Williams
DB · Age: 29

Safeties who can hit aren’t in vogue, but my god, Williams’ hits can be breathtaking. He’s developed into a good slot defender who can cover tight ends.


UPDATE: Williams re-signed with the New Orleans Saints on a one-year deal fully guaranteed deal worth $2.537 million, according to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

Rank
98
Raheem Mostert
RB · Age: 30

The speedster with great vision missed all of last season with a knee injury. Perhaps he'll follow Mike McDaniel to Miami. 


UPDATE: Mostert signed a one-year, $3.125 million contract with the Miami Dolphins, per NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.

Rank
99
Lorenzo Carter
Edge · Age: 26

Carter was always able to create pass rush production without much help around him in New York, so there's upside he could do better elsewhere.


UPDATE: Carter signed a one-year deal with the Atlanta Falcons, per NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport. 

Rank
100
Riley Reiff
OT · Age: 33

The Bengals missed Reiff's steady play at right tackle when he hurt his ankle in mid-December.


UPDATE: Reiff has signed a one-year deal with the Chicago Bears, the team announced.

Rank
101
Andy Dalton
QB · Age: 34

Dalton has seen a ton of action (15 starts) since transitioning into the backup phase of his career and has played exactly how you’d expect. The new Dalton Scale: If your veteran backup is worse than Dalton, you need a new QB2? 


UPDATE: Dalton is signing with the New Orleans Saints on a one-year, $3 million guaranteed deal that has a max value of $6 million, according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero. 

Follow Gregg Rosenthal on Twitter.

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