There have been some big moves in NFL free agency, but there are still plenty of quality players left on the market. Many veterans remain unsigned. They could either be working through injuries, figuring out if their playing days are behind them, or waiting until after the NFL Draft to find a team that is a real contender. Here is our list of the top remaining 2024 NFL free agents.
Offense
Tyler Boyd – WR
Boyd has been a solid number three wide receiver in Cincinnati for the past few seasons and was unfortunately just stuck behind Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. But he clearly can excel as a number two somewhere else, which was evident by how he stepped up when one of those two were out. Last season, Boyd put up 667 yards with two touchdowns. In his best season in 2019, he had 1,046 receiving yards and five touchdowns. That was his second consecutive season with over 1,000 yards receiving. Those years came before the Bengals invested draft stock at the WR position. Best Fit: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Ryan Tannehill – QB
Tannehill had a bumpy end in Tennessee where injuries sidelined him and the Titans opted to play their two younger quarterbacks who they’d invested draft capital going with Will Levis and Malik Willis. Tannehill would be a solid backup option for a lot of teams out there with young quarterbacks who are learning, or to come in and compete for a starting role. His best playing days are certainly behind him, but he can still contribute as a veteran and a mentor to a younger quarterback. Two years ago, he threw for over 2500 passing yards and threw for 13 touchdowns to just six interceptions. Best Fit: Chicago Bears
Mekhi Becton – OL
Becton has been considered a draft bust since the Jets drafted him 11th overall back in the 2020 draft. He has had major knee issues since coming into the league, which he blamed on the Jets. After they declined his fifth-year option before the 2023 season, Becton balled out on the line, just missing a game this season with a high ankle sprain. He clearly had enough talent to be taken with a high pick and could benefit from a major change of scenery and maybe even take on a depth role. Best Fit: Dallas Cowboys
Defense
Justin Simmons – S
At one point, Justin Simmons was the highest paid safety in the NFL, and it was for good reason. Simmons has excellent size to him and is a total ball hawk, he has had 30 interceptions in his career and forced four turnovers last season alone. He is an aging vet who would be a huge pickup to any secondary. With his lack of playoff experience, I think Simmons could be targeting a contender to play for. Best Fit: San Francisco 49ers
Stephon Gilmore – CB
Gilmore has been one of the top cornerbacks in the league for years and that hasn’t changed despite the many teams that he has played for in recent years. In his career, he has had five Pro Bowl appearances, two first-team All-Pro selections, a Super Bowl ring and a Defensive Player of the Year award. Gilmore is good enough to still start but could also head to a contender to mentor and contribute off the bench. Best Fit: Philadelphia Eagles