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While the NFL free agency period has all but passed, there is still some premier talent available on the market. Here are some of the top remaining NFL free agents as training camp quickly approaches.
Jadeveon Clowney – defensive end
The former first overall pick by the Houston Texans in 2014 is an elite run stopper, making him the best free agent still available. Clowney only had 3 sacks last season with the Seattle Seahawks, but taking a deeper dive into his stats shows Seattle’s pressure rate increase by around 7 percent with Clowney in the game. While Clowney hasn’t exactly racked up the sacks during his career, his all-around game as a pass rusher and run stopper make him an extremely valuable piece for any defense.
Larry Warford – guard
Warford was drafted in the third round in 2013 by the Detroit Lions, where he would go on to become an above-average starter during the first four years of his career. In 2017, Warford signed with the New Orleans Saints, where he reached a new gear. Warford made three straight Pro Bowls from 2017-2019 with the Saints and started to become recognized as one of the NFL’s top guards. Warford was cut by the Saints in the offseason in order to free up $8 million in cap space.
Logan Ryan – defensive back
Ryan has always been a solid and versatile cornerback throughout his career but really upped his game with the Tennessee Titans in 2019. While having no interceptions in his first two years with the Titans after coming over from the New England Patriots, Ryan snagged 4 picks in 2019. Ryan also had a career-high 4.5 sacks last season, along with more than doubling 2018’s pass breakups with 18 in 2019. While Ryan is by no means an elite slot corner, he’s still an above-average player who offers value at the position.
Everson Griffen – defensive end
The Minnesota Vikings veteran is the best pass rusher currently available, putting up 8 sacks in 2019. The emergence of Danielle Hunter has given the Vikings a ferocious one-two punch with him and Griffen on their front four over the past few seasons. The four-time Pro Bowler still has some gas left in the tank and would be a solid addition to any team looking to improve their pass rush. Griffen has been linked to the Seahawks if they’re unable to land Clowney and a potential return with the Vikings.
Josh Gordon – wide receiver
The embattled but extremely talented wide receiver cannot seem to get out of his own way. Facing multiple indefinite bans for repeat substance abuse violations throughout his career, Gordon reportedly reached out to NFL commissioner Roger Goodell regarding reinstatement for the 2020 season. Gordon has proven to be a dynamic deep threat throughout his career, which makes him a valuable asset on any NFL roster when available. Gordon caught seven passes for 139 yards in five games with the Seahawks in 2019 after being claimed off of waivers. According to John Clayton, the Seahawks will try to bring Gordon back if he gets reinstated for next season.
