The saying “defense wins championships” was undeniably showcased during the 2024 NFL season.

Super Bowl MVP and Kansas City Chiefs star Patrick Mahomes faced a formidable challenge as the Philadelphia Eagles’ defense, especially their front line, overwhelmed him in a decisive 40-22 victory for the NFC champions in Super Bowl LIX. Notably, three standout players from that exceptional defense are highlighted among the top 25 defensive free agents anticipated to hit the market when the NFL’s new league year commences on March 12.

(To explore the top 25 offensive free agents, click here).

Here’s an overview of the 25 most sought-after defenders entering free agency:

Honorable mentions: Raiders linebacker Robert Spillane, Colts defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo, Eagles DE Haason Reddick, Buccaneers linebacker Lavonte David, Cardinals defensive end Baron Browning, and Jets linebacker Jamien Sherwood.

While Azeez Ojulari boasts an impressive 22 career sacks over 46 games, his pressure statistics reveal some concerns. With only 108 recorded pressures, he ranks 66th out of 68 qualified players since 2021, and his pressure rate of 10.8% puts him at 51st. This raises questions about his effectiveness beyond being a specialist as he approaches his 25th birthday on June 16, 2024.

Justin Simmons stands out with 32 career interceptions, the highest in the NFL since 2016. Now with the Falcons, Simmons added two interceptions in 2024 and remains a valuable asset for any team’s defensive backline, even at age 31.

Levi Onwuzurike possesses the size (6-foot-3, 290 pounds) and versatility to be a significant contributor along a defensive line. However, his injury history includes missing 25 games over four seasons. If he can maintain his health, he could be a valuable signing for any team.

Dre Greenlaw has proven to be a crucial player for the San Francisco 49ers. Although he only played 34 snaps in 2024 due to an Achilles injury, his presence significantly elevates the performance of his teammates. At 28, his career still has potential for a strong comeback.

2025 NFL Free Agency: Ranking the Top 25 Offensive Free Agents with Many Veteran Receivers and O-linemen

Jared Dubin

DeMarcus Lawrence may be approaching 33, but his ability to disrupt plays remains evident. He recorded three sacks and four tackles for loss before a foot injury cut his season short. Joining a team with a dominant edge rusher could enhance his effectiveness as a starter.

Chargers corner Asante Samuel Jr. is looking to bounce back after spending part of the season on IR. While he struggled with tackling, his talent as a cover corner should mature as he turns 26 this coming season.

Paulson Adebo had an impressive start to 2024 before a broken femur sidelined him after seven games. His impressive 44.1 passer rating against demonstrates his skills as a primary defender in coverage. With concerns about recovery, if he returns to form, Adebo could experience a breakout season.

Bills cornerback Rasul Douglas has been a ball magnet, recording 14 interceptions since 2021 and nine passes defended during that timeframe. While 2024 was a quiet year interception-wise, this year appears to be an outlier. At 30, Douglas remains a valuable prospect for any contender.

Dallas’ Jourdan Lewis is recognized as one of the most versatile defensive backs in the league. Known primarily as a nickelback, he proved effective outside while others were injured. As he turns 30 in late August, his football acumen makes him a prized asset for any team.

Harrison Bynum isn’t just known for his entertaining dance moves in Minnesota. In 2024, he showcased his defensive skills by grabbing a career-high three interceptions while thriving in a blitz-heavy scheme. His strong tackling ability makes him a potential fit across various team strategies.

Since 2023, just three safeties collected five or more interceptions, five or more tackles for loss, and defended over 15 passes: Jessie Bates III, Kyle Hamilton, and Tre’von Moehrig. The latter recorded 104 tackles in 2024 and remains remarkably durable, having played in 66 of 68 games since being drafted by the Raiders. Turning 25 on June 16, Moehrig still has plenty of room for growth alongside stronger teammates.

Chase Young, the 2020 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, returned to form last season with a career-high 21 quarterback hits, which tied for the 16th highest in the league. As he approaches his 26th birthday on April 14, he may be on the verge of a resurgence.

Although Khalil Mack turns 34 soon, his previous year showcased his potential as a disruptive force. Mack recorded an impressive 17.0 sacks in 2023 but saw a dip to just 6.0 in 2024. For a playoff contender, adding Mack could be the difference-maker in elevating their pass rush.

Nick Bolton, the Chiefs’ leading tackler in three of his four seasons, amassed 106 tackles in 2024. If Kansas City opts against re-signing him, he could command around $12 million annually based on recent contracts for similar players.

Talented safety Talanoa Hufanga shone as a first-team All-Pro in 2022 but dealt with injuries in the following seasons. If he can maintain his health, the team that signs him will get a fantastic deal for the dynamic 26-year-old.

Cornerback Charvarius Ward faced challenges in 2024 due to personal issues but was an All-Pro just a season ago. With the prospect of a multi-year contract on the horizon before his 29th birthday on May 16, teams may be willing to overlook his past struggles.

Upon arriving in Detroit in 2024, Carlton Davis excelled as a lead cornerback in a youthful secondary, yielding a 62.7 passer rating against. Despite his season ending with a broken jaw, his performance warranted him a salary increase.

Safety Justin Reid, 27, had a strong season in 2024, ranking 12th among safeties, but may find his position challenged as rookie safety Jaden Hicks gains traction. Reid’s two Super Bowl wins could lead to a high-profile signing this offseason.

Dallas Cowboys’ interior lineman Osa Odighizuwa stood out with 60 quarterback pressures in 2024, second only to Zach Allen. With his promising performance, a long-term deal is on the horizon for the 26-year-old.

D.J. Reed is regarded as one of this offseason’s top cornerback free agents. In 2024, he held opponents to the 14th fewest yards per attempt (5.8) and the 16th lowest passer rating against (63.0), despite the turmoil within the Jets organization. He could thrive on a more stable team.

Before breaking a bone in his hand in 2024, Jevon Holland emerged as one of the top safeties, earning a 90.4 PFF defensive grade in 2023, ranking him third in the league. Turning 25 on March 3, Holland has the potential to solidify his standing among the elite.

Byron Murphy Jr. made waves in 2024, becoming a Pro Bowler after achieving personal highs in interceptions (6), passes defended (14), and tackles (81) while often facing opposing receivers solo amidst a blitz-heavy scheme. After turning 27, Murphy is poised for a lucrative contract this offseason.

A third-round pick in 2021, Milton Williams had a breakthrough 2024 season, recording career-highs in sacks (5.0) and quarterback pressures (40). He finished fourth in pass rush win rate among interior linemen at 17.5%, and two sacks against Mahomes during Super Bowl LIX cap off an impressive contract year. A significant payday awaits him.

No 2025 free agent has positioned themselves for a contract boost quite like Zack Baun. After transitioning from edge rusher to inside linebacker with the Eagles, he accumulated 151 tackles and five forced fumbles, making him a standout player. Baun earned his first Pro Bowl selection and first-team All-Pro honors while being a finalist for NFL Defensive Player of the Year. His crucial interception of Mahomes helped the Eagles to their Super Bowl LIX triumph, capping an outstanding season and attracting considerable interest for his services this offseason.

Josh Sweat’s 8 sacks in 2024 highlighted a strong year for the Eagles’ defensive front. Coupled with an impressive 11.0 sacks in 2022, he led his team to the Super Bowl, delivering exceptional performances, including 2.5 sacks against the Chiefs in the championship game. To retain Sweat, the Eagles may need to offer him more than the three-year deal signed by Bryce Huff. Otherwise, Sweat may be headed to a new team next season.