This year, the NFL made a strategic decision to push the trade deadline back by one week. While this adjustment may seem minor, it has provided teams with additional time to assess their competitive stance for 2024. This week has allowed franchises to better evaluate whether they need to focus on present efforts or if they should start looking toward the 2025 offseason. Front offices have been closely monitoring potential offseason moves and players who may become available, including insights from the Moneyline Scouting Department, which has been diligently tracking team needs throughout the season and analyzing the college draft prospects of the upcoming year.
As a result of these efforts, there is an anticipation for the 2025 free-agent class, which promises to be substantial. The legal contact period is set to open on March 10, followed by the official start of the market on March 12. An initial ranking of the top 50 impending free agents has been compiled based on criteria including past performance, potential upside, age, positional value, and injury history. The analysis also includes an exploration of prospective teams interested in players ranked among the top 25.
Lavonte David, linebacker for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, appears as the 50th player on the list. At 35, he may attract the attention of playoff contenders looking for short-term reinforcement. Despite his age, the three-time All-Pro is a versatile defender capable of contributing at all levels—run defense, pass rush, and coverage. Another notable name is Kristian Fulton, cornerback for the Los Angeles Chargers, currently recovering from a hamstring injury but previously demonstrating reliability with an opposing passer rating of below 92 in his first three seasons. Malcolm Koonce, showcasing resilience after a knee injury, and Chase Young, seeking to prove his value on a one-year deal with the New Orleans Saints, are also highlighted as players to watch as they position themselves ahead of the 2025 free-agent market, along with a multitude of others who will make a significant impact.
