CBS Sports’ Pete Prisco releases his list of top 100 free agents
We are only a few days away from the start of the 2024 NFL Combine, which means the new league year is right around the corner.
As we know, the start of the new league year represents the beginning of free agency.
CBS Sports’ Pete Prisco recently released his list of the top 100 players that are currently set to become free agents. Of course, franchise tags could remove some of these players from the list as we inch closer to the start of the new league year (March 13).
Nevertheless, here are the top 10 players on Prisco’s list, along with commentary from the NFL analyst.
1. QB Kirk Cousins
“He suffered a torn Achilles tendon last season, but he should be back for the start of the 2024 season. The Vikings found out what it was like without him, so they should make sure he’s back, and I think they will.”
2. DL Chris Jones
“He is a game-wrecker for any defense and the Chiefs would be wise to keep him. Jones said he wants to come back, but if he hits the market he will be a top target for a lot of teams.”
3. OLB Josh Allen
“He had his career-best season with 17.5 sacks at the right time. He showed that he can be a dominant edge rusher. The Jaguars will likely tag him if they don’t get a deal done.”
4. DL Justin Madubuike
“He had his breakout season in 2023, showing off his ability to be disruptive in the run game and as an inside rusher. He just turned 26 in November, so his best football is still to come.”
5. OLB Danielle Hunter
“He had 16.5 sacks last season and remains a top edge player. The Vikings will likely do what they can to keep him because it’s hard to find good edge players.”
6. CB L’Jarius Sneed
“He is a shutdown corner who can lock up the other team’s best receiver. The market for that talent will be high if the Chiefs don’t keep him around. Watch the Super Bowl to see his value.”
7. CB Jaylon Johnson
“This 24-year-old had his breakout season in 2023, showing off outstanding cover skills to help his push to get a major deal. The Bears, who do have cap room, would be wise to keep him and will likely tag him.”
8. OLB Brian Burns
“He had just eight sacks last season, tying his career low, which isn’t a good way to go to free agency. But he doesn’t turn 26 until April. So he has a lot of good years left rushing the passer.”
9. S Antoine Winfield Jr.
“He is a do-it-all safety who can cover, play the run and is a willing tackler. He’s smallish, but he plays big. The Bucs would be wise to keep him and a tag is possible.”
10. WR Tee Higgins
“Higgins might be the top receiver in this class, but he has to convince a team he’s a true No. 1. I think he can be, so expect him to get a top-dollar deal.”
Click here to view the rest of Prisco’s top 100 free agents