Who Are the Top NFL Free Agents in 2025 and Where Will They Sign?

By Jason Bolton June 17, 2025 09:36

The 2025 NFL free agency period has been a whirlwind, with several marquee players changing teams and reshaping rosters across the league. Yet, as of mid-June, some top-tier free agents remain unsigned, sparking intense speculation about where these impact players will land and how they could influence the upcoming season.

Top Free Agents Still Available

Among the most notable unsigned players is veteran wide receiver Amari Cooper, who at 31 still offers reliable route running and playmaking ability despite signs of decline. Last season, Cooper caught 44 passes for 547 yards and four touchdowns split between the Browns and Bills. With seven 1,000-yard seasons and 64 career touchdowns, Cooper remains a coveted asset for teams needing experienced pass-catching depth.

Another high-profile free agent is cornerback Rasul Douglas, 30, known for his physicality and ability to disrupt passes in zone coverage. Douglas recorded five tackles for loss and five pass breakups in 2024, along with an interception returned for a touchdown. His versatility makes him an attractive option for teams emphasizing defensive backfield depth.

Additionally, young stars like linebacker Zack Baun, edge rusher Josh Sweat, and offensive guard Trey Smith have drawn significant attention. Baun and Sweat both bring pass-rushing prowess, with Sweat recently signing a lucrative four-year, $76.4 million deal, signaling the market’s value for edge defenders.

Where Might They Sign?

Speculation abounds regarding landing spots for these free agents. Amari Cooper reportedly remains in talks with several playoff contenders seeking to bolster their receiving corps. Teams like the New England Patriots and Miami Dolphins, who have shown interest in veteran wideouts, could be prime destinations given their offensive schemes and need for reliable targets.

Rasul Douglas’s skill set fits well in zone-heavy defenses such as those run by the New York Giants or the Philadelphia Eagles, both of which have cap space and could benefit from his physical style of play.

Linebackers like Zack Baun and Josh Sweat are highly sought after by teams needing to upgrade their pass rush, including the Minnesota Vikings and New Orleans Saints. Sweat’s recent contract suggests a rising market for edge rushers, which could drive bidding wars for similar players.

Market Dynamics and Contract Trends

The 2025 free agency market has been characterized by a cautious approach from teams, balancing salary cap constraints with the desire to add impact players. For example, Sam Darnold, a quarterback ranked among the top free agents, secured a three-year, $100.5 million contract, highlighting how teams prioritize key positions.

Meanwhile, some veterans have signed shorter-term deals as teams hedge against age and injury risks. Cooper Kupp’s three-year, $45 million deal with the Seahawks exemplifies this trend, combining security with flexibility.

Expert Perspectives

NFL analysts emphasize the strategic importance of these free agents. ESPN’s NFL insider notes, “Players like Amari Cooper and Rasul Douglas offer veteran savvy and positional versatility that can be difference-makers for teams on the cusp of contention.” Meanwhile, PFF highlights the premium on edge rushers, stating, “Josh Sweat’s contract reflects how critical pass rushers are in today’s NFL defensive schemes”.

As the 2025 NFL offseason progresses, the remaining free agents represent valuable opportunities for teams to fill key roster holes. Amari Cooper’s experience and route-running, Rasul Douglas’s physical cornerback play, and the pass-rushing talents of Zack Baun and Josh Sweat stand out as some of the most impactful available players.

Where they sign will depend on team needs, cap space, and scheme fit, but one thing is clear: these free agents will shape the competitive landscape heading into the new season. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as negotiations continue, with the potential for late signings to tip the balance in the tightly contested NFL.