NFL Free Agency: Top Defensive Free Agents for 2025
As we move through the 2025 NFL offseason, several defensive players are poised to make a significant impact on the free agency market. Following the 2025 NFL Draft, teams are now focusing on bolstering their defenses with proven talent. Here’s a look at some of the top defensive free agents available, with potential team fits based on current needs.
Edge Rushers
A strong pass rush is crucial in the modern NFL, and several edge rushers are available to fill that need.
Hendrickson, Trey
While injuries limited his playing time in 2024, Trey Hendrickson remains a top-tier pass rusher. From 2020 to 2024, he accumulated 74.5 sacks, with consecutive seasons exceeding 17 sacks. Despite a challenging year with the Cincinnati Bengals, he could command a contract worth at least $30 million per year. Possible teams include the Chicago Bears, Modern England Patriots, Indianapolis Colts, and Dallas Cowboys.
Oweh, Jalen
Regenerated by a mid-season trade to the Los Angeles Chargers, Jalen Oweh finished the 2025 season strong with 7.5 sacks in 12 games. He too had 10.0 sacks in 2024. This upside could secure him a contract worth at least $25 million per year. Potential landing spots include the Los Angeles Chargers, Las Vegas Raiders, and Tennessee Titans.
Clowney, Jadeveon
A consistent performer who excels at getting his hands dirty, Jadeveon Clowney continues to be a valuable asset. He consistently delivers around 6-7 sacks per season. He’s a temporary solution, but a reliable one. Possible teams include the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Chicago Bears.
Mack, Khalil
At 35, Khalil Mack remains a highly productive pass rusher and solid run defender. He has 240 pressures over the last four seasons, ranking 11th among edge rushers. He is seeking a Super Bowl ring to complete his Hall of Fame-worthy career. Potential teams include the Los Angeles Chargers, Baltimore Ravens, and Kansas City Chiefs.
Chaisson, Jabari
Jabari Chaisson had a breakout year in 2025 with 10.5 sacks, reminding teams why the Jacksonville Jaguars drafted him in the first round. It remains to be seen if this performance will lead to a multi-year contract. Possible teams include the New England Patriots, San Francisco 49ers, and Cleveland Browns.
Defensive Linemen
Franklin-Myers, John
John Franklin-Myers totaled 14.5 sacks over the last two seasons with the Denver Broncos, establishing himself as one of the best free agents available. He is a valuable interior lineman capable of consistently pressuring the quarterback. Possible teams include the Tennessee Titans, Chicago Bears, and Las Vegas Raiders.
Onyemata, David
Facing free agency at 33, David Onyemata is unlikely to receive a long-term contract, but remains a reliable player. His combination of explosiveness and power allows him to dominate the line of scrimmage. He’s an interesting profile for teams needing run defense. Possible teams include the Cincinnati Bengals, Chicago Bears, and Buffalo Bills.
Campbell, Calais
Calais Campbell continues to defy expectations, postponing retirement year after year. He has 18.0 total sacks over the last three seasons, despite a part-time role. He is seeking a team with Super Bowl aspirations. Possible teams: any team with a chance to win the Super Bowl.
Jones, Akiem
Akiem Jones consistently delivers pressure and is adequate in run defense. At 35, he should find an advantageous annual contract. Possible teams include the Buffalo Bills, Pittsburgh Steelers, and New York Giants.
Nose Tackles
For teams needing help in run defense, a prototypical nose tackle can be a valuable addition.
Linebackers
Lloyd, Frankie
Frankie Lloyd had a standout season in 2025, with 5 interceptions, establishing himself as a modern linebacker capable of excelling in coverage, run defense, and pass rush. Jacksonville will try to retain him, but he could command a significant contract. Possible teams include the Cincinnati Bengals, Jacksonville Jaguars, Las Vegas Raiders, and New York Giants.
Bush, Devin
Devin Bush transformed himself into one of the best linebackers in the league in the last two seasons with the Cleveland Browns. A change of scenery seems to have unlocked his potential. Possible teams include the Arizona Cardinals, Washington Commanders, and New Orleans Saints.
Walker, Nakobe
Nakobe Walker has the potential to be a conductor in the center of a defense. Possible teams include the Washington Commanders, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Buffalo Bills.
Dean, Jack
Jack Dean was limited by injuries in 2025, but has the ability to bring pressure to opposing quarterbacks. Possible teams include the Chicago Bears, Denver Broncos, and Cincinnati Bengals.
Wagner, Bobby
Bobby Wagner is 60 total tackles away from Ray Lewis’ all-time record and continues to be a reliable veteran. Possible teams include the Dallas Cowboys, Washington Commanders, Buffalo Bills, and Detroit Lions.
Davis, Lavonte
Lavonte Davis remains one of the most complete and reliable linebackers in the league. Possible teams include wherever he can win the Super Bowl.
Cornerbacks
Dean, Stephon
Stephon Dean allowed an average passer rating of 46.9 in 2025, making quarterbacks avoid throwing in his direction. Possible teams include the Green Bay Packers, Arizona Cardinals, Las Vegas Raiders, and Cincinnati Bengals.
Woolen, Tariq
Tariq Woolen has struggled with penalties, but has the potential to be a top cornerback. Possible teams include the Seattle Seahawks, San Francisco 49ers, and New York Jets.
This free agency period promises to be active, with several impactful defensive players seeking new homes. Teams will need to carefully evaluate their needs and make strategic moves to improve their defenses for the 2026 season.