The 2027 free-agent class, much like the 2027 NFL Draft class, looks better than usual. History indicates they both won't appear as promising by spring.
Early contract extensions, trades and franchise tags will take many of the players listed below off the board before free agency officially opens on March 11. Still, some teams (hello, Rams) won't be able to keep everyone.
Nacua would already be paid long-term if not for his immaturity off the field. On it, he's off to one of the best starts to a career for any receiver in league history.
The Cowboys don't sound particularly interested in paying Pickens beyond this season to be Robin to Ceedee Lamb's Batman. All signs from training camp point to Pickens backing up his breakout '25 campaign.
Both the Packers and Kraft have expressed confidence that a deal will get done soon, despite last November's ACL tear. The 6-foot-5, 259-pounder has rare value as a complete tight end.
The 89th pick of the 2023 draft, Turner has developed into one of the best interior pass rushers in the NFL. Playing next to Aaron Donald should only help him.
Young is another great development story for the Rams, equally adept at bending the edge as a pass rusher and finishing plays in run defense. Last season, he had 29 QB hits and 12 sacks, numbers that should give him a higher profile.
Mayfield has stabilized his career in Tampa despite his streakiness. He's going to be a starter next year and is likely to remain with the Bucs if he prospers in 2026.
LaPorta is just a tick below the best tight ends in the league in blocking and athleticism. He'll get huge money if he puts the injuries behind him.
An eventual Hall of Fame candidate, Nelson is coming off a strong season. He entered his 30s in March, but great guards often age well.
A top-10 safety immediately upon entering the league, Branch could climb even higher in these rankings if he can stay healthy in 2026.
While Tuipulotu doesn't wow you with any one elite trait, his strength and doggedness make him very productive. We ranked him as a top-25 edge defender on NFL Daily.
A starter at guard since his rookie season, Avila is an imposing threat who is equally stout as a run blocker and pass protector. Players with his strength and consistency get at least $20 million per year in today's market.
This ranking is a hedge. Either Murray rejuvenates his career like Sam Darnold in Minnesota and makes $45 million-plus per year or he slips into the realm of permanent bridge quarterback.
Like a lot of great man-coverage cornerbacks, Porter knows how good he is. The Steelers have been with him through some ups and downs; they should want to retain him during his prime.
Based on 2025 tape, Turner was a top-10 NFL cornerback. Maintaining that level at a volatile position could lead to a franchise tag in Cincinnati.
Diaby is one of the best pocket pushers in the NFL. He's also tough to move off his spot in the running game because he's so strong.
The second interior offensive lineman from the Rams to make this list, Dotson is a favorite in Los Angeles for his attitude and aggression in the run game. Both he and Steve Avila were ranked in the top 15 at guard by PFF in 2025.
Look past the penalties last season and you'll see that Moss has developed into a plus starter at cornerback in Denver.
A three-down threat, Brown is underrated as a receiver and in escaping tight spaces. He's a complete back who could have a James Cook-like trajectory.
The Eagles can't pay everyone, so Ojomo could be the rare talented lineman to leave Philadelphia for more cash elsewhere.
One of the biggest surprises in Jacksonville last season, Washington is the type of do-everything receiver who can fit into any scheme.
Onwenu took a surprising paycut to remain with the Patriots, but he's a versatile lineman who can play inside and out. His roller-coaster career has included some very high highs when he's been right.
Downs can be one of the league's best slot receivers when healthy.
In a thin year for free-agent safeties, Bates still brings veteran know-how.
Van Ginkel might fit best in a Brian Flores-type defense, but a few more have popped up around the league to help his market value.
He may not win as regularly down the field these days, but Adams' release package still gets open in the red zone and on third down. This gives the Rams six of the 25 players on this list.
Also receiving votes (listed alphabetically): Mike Jackson, CB, Carolina Panthers; Jermaine Johnson II, Edge, Tennessee Titans; Mac Jones, QB, San Francisco 49ers; Cody Mauch, OG, Tampa Bay Buccaneers; Ja'Quan McMillian, NB, Denver Broncos; DeMarvion Overshown, LB, Dallas Cowboys; D'Andre Swift, RB, Chicago Bears; Kayvon Thibodeaux, Edge, New York Giants; Garrett Williams, NB, Arizona Cardinals; Riq Woolen, CB, Philadelphia Eagles.
