The Most Overpaid NFL Free Agents This Year

By Jason Bolton July 11, 2025 09:45

The 2025 NFL free agency period has been marked by several headline-grabbing contracts, but not all of them have been prudent investments. As teams scramble to bolster their rosters, a handful of players have landed deals that many analysts consider overpaid, raising questions about value, fit, and long-term impact. Here’s a look at some of the most overpaid NFL free agents this year and what their contracts mean for their new teams.

1. Milton Williams, Defensive Tackle – New England Patriots

Williams signed a staggering four-year, $104 million contract with the Patriots, making him one of the highest-paid defensive tackles in the league. While Williams showcased flashes of dominance in the 2024 season with five sacks, 10 QB hits, and 24 tackles, his overall production does not yet justify a $26 million annual cap hit. Analysts suggest the Patriots may have succumbed to recency bias, paying a premium for his postseason heroics rather than consistent regular-season dominance. As one expert noted, “Williams is a good player, but this contract feels like a gamble that could haunt New England’s cap space”.

2. Javon Kinlaw, Defensive Tackle – Washington Commanders

The Commanders inked Kinlaw to a three-year, $45 million deal with $30 million guaranteed, a contract that places him among the top 25 highest-paid interior defensive linemen. Kinlaw’s production 8 sacks and 65 pressures over the last two seasons is solid but not elite, especially considering his injury history and limited snaps (never more than 700 in a season). Washington’s gamble to replace Jonathan Allen with Kinlaw’s hefty contract has drawn scrutiny. As ESPN’s Mike Moody put it, “$15 million per year is a huge number for a player who hasn’t consistently proven to be a three-down starter”.

3. Dan Moore Jr., Left Tackle – Tennessee Titans

Moore secured a four-year, $82 million contract with the Titans despite mixed performance metrics. Pro Football Focus (PFF) graded him at 67.2 in 2024, ranking 46th out of 141 tackles, with 12 sacks allowed and five penalties a shaky showing for a top-paid left tackle. The Titans appear to be banking on Moore’s durability and potential rather than his recent performance. Critics argue this contract is a classic example of paying for a “higher floor” rather than upside, with questionable return on investment.

4. Will Fries, Offensive Guard – Minnesota Vikings

Fries’ five-year, $87.7 million deal raised eyebrows, especially since he only played five games in 2024 due to injury. While Fries was graded as the fourth-best guard during his limited snaps, the Vikings’ gamble on his health and consistency is risky. At nearly $17.5 million per year, this contract is steep for a player with a patchy availability record. The Vikings’ front office is clearly hoping Fries can replicate his strong 2023 performance, but the injury history tempers expectations.

5. Aaron Banks, Offensive Guard – Green Bay Packers

Banks signed a four-year, $77 million deal with the Packers, making him the third-highest-paid left guard in the NFL. While Banks has shown solid run-blocking ability and allowed just one sack over two seasons, he has been prone to mental lapses and inconsistent pass protection. Green Bay’s investment seems driven by a desire to bolster their trenches around Josh Jacobs, but many analysts question if this contract is justified given Banks’ limitations.

What These Overpays Mean for Teams

Overpaying free agents is a perennial risk in the NFL, often resulting from teams desperate to fill key roster holes or influenced by recent standout performances. These contracts can hamper cap flexibility and limit a team’s ability to address other needs. As one analyst summarized, “Teams must balance the allure of immediate upgrades with sustainable roster building. Overpaying can create long-term headaches”.

In 2025, the trend of big-money deals for players with injury histories, inconsistent production, or limited sample sizes continues. While these players may still contribute, their contracts represent high-risk investments that could impact their teams’ competitiveness and financial health in the coming years.