The High Stakes of NFL Free Agency: Edge Rushers in Focus
The NFL free agency period is a whirlwind of excitement and speculation, especially for positions that command significant attention and lucrative contracts. One such position is the edge rusher, a critical role in any defense that can make or break a team’s season. As we look ahead to the 2025 free agency, the list of available edge rushers spans a diverse range of talents, from seasoned veterans to promising young stars. Last year, the edge rusher market was particularly deep, with notable signings like Danielle Hunter moving to the Texans, Jonathan Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel to the Vikings, all of whom had impressive double-digit sack totals in their new homes. Can the players on this year’s list replicate that success with new teams in the upcoming season? Here’s a rundown of the top 10 edge rushers available, along with 10 more names to watch.
10. Chauncey Golston, Dallas Cowboys (69)
Chauncey Golston, a 26-year-old edge rusher for the Dallas Cowboys, had a breakthrough year in 2024, recording 5.5 sacks—more than he had in his first three seasons combined. This newfound productivity came after he stepped into a starting role, playing nearly 800 snaps on defense and an additional 177 on special teams. While Golston’s performance may not place him at the top of the market, his potential as a solid third edge rusher is undeniable. Teams looking for a reliable and versatile defender who can contribute both on the field and on special teams will likely find his value attractive. With a reasonable salary range of $6-7 million per year, Golston could be a cost-effective addition for many franchises.
9. Azeez Ojulari, New York Giants (66)
Azeez Ojulari, a 24-year-old edge rusher for the New York Giants, has been an underrated force in recent seasons. Despite playing only 11 games in 2024 due to various injuries, he managed to rack up six sacks, bringing his career total to 22. Ojulari’s speed and agility make him a formidable pass-rusher, but his injury history has been a consistent issue. Since his rookie year, he has missed 22 of 51 games, dealing with ailments like a torn ligament in his toe, calf, ankle, and hamstring injuries. Despite these challenges, his talent is undeniable. Teams will need to weigh the risk of his injury-prone nature against the potential reward of a high-impact pass-rusher in the prime of his career.
8. DeMarcus Lawrence, Dallas Cowboys (54)
DeMarcus Lawrence, a 33-year-old veteran for the Dallas Cowboys, had a promising start to the 2024 season before it was cut short due to an injured foot. In just four games, he recorded three sacks and five quarterback hits, demonstrating that he still has the skills to disrupt opposing offenses. Lawrence’s ability to generate pressure early in the season suggests he could still be a valuable addition, albeit not as a double-digit sack threat. His experience and leadership will be assets for any team willing to bring him on, but his health and limited playing time in recent years will likely affect his market value.
7. Patrick Jones, Minnesota Vikings (50)
Patrick Jones, a 26-year-old edge rusher for the Minnesota Vikings, had a breakout year in 2024, finishing with seven sacks despite playing fewer than 500 defensive snaps. His performance in the first four games, where he recorded five sacks, was particularly impressive. Jones’s ability to make an impact in limited playing time has drawn attention, and he is likely to command a significant salary if he finds a larger role with a new team. The Vikings, with Jonathan Greenard, Andrew Van Ginkel, and rookie Dallas Turner returning, might let Jones walk in free agency, opening up opportunities for other teams to see what he can do with more playing time.
6. Dante Fowler Jr., Washington Commanders (45)
Dante Fowler Jr., a 30-year-old edge rusher for the Washington Commanders, led the team with 10.5 sacks in 2024. His productivity and leadership have been crucial for the Commanders, and he also led the team with 28 quarterback hurries. Pass rushers often maintain their effectiveness well into their mid-30s, making Fowler a valuable asset for any team looking to bolster their pass rush. His consistent performance and experience will likely attract multiple suitors, and he could be a key pickup for a defense in need of a reliable sack artist.
5. Dayo Odeyingbo, Indianapolis Colts (40)
Dayo Odeyingbo, a 25-year-old edge rusher for the Indianapolis Colts, has shown flashes of brilliance but has yet to fully solidify his status as a top-tier pass-rusher. In 2023, he had eight sacks in a rotational role, but his production dropped to just three sacks as a starter in 2024. Despite the decline, Odeyingbo’s disruptive play and four forced fumbles over the past two seasons suggest he has the potential to be a game-changer. With his age and upside, he is likely to command a substantial contract, possibly in the $15 million per year range. Teams will be eager to see if he can build on his inconsistent performance and become a consistent threat off the edge.
4. Chase Young, New Orleans Saints (23)
Chase Young, a 25-year-old former No. 2 overall pick for the New Orleans Saints, had a solid first year with the team, racking up 5.5 sacks and showing that he can stay healthy. The Saints, however, are in cap trouble, which could impact their decision to extend him ahead of free agency. A failure to do so would result in $9 million in dead money. Young’s combination of talent and health makes him a high-value target in the free agency market. His potential for greatness, especially if he can maintain his health, means he will likely command a salary of at least $15 million per year. Teams will need to balance the risk of his past injuries with the upside he offers.
3. Haason Reddick, New York Jets (20)
Haason Reddick, a 30-year-old edge rusher for the New York Jets, has been one of the most prolific pass-rushers in the NFL over the past four seasons, recording 50.5 sacks for three different teams. However, his reputation took a hit in 2024 when he forced a trade to the Jets and followed it with a pointless holdout, resulting in just one sack in 10 games. Despite these setbacks, Reddick’s proven track record and recent leadership role with the Jets make him an attractive option. While there is risk associated with his demand for a top-tier contract, his previous success suggests he could still be a valuable addition for a team in need of a pass-rushing specialist.
2. Josh Sweat, Philadelphia Eagles (9)
Josh Sweat, a 27-year-old edge rusher for the Philadelphia Eagles, had his biggest moment in the spotlight during the 2024 Super Bowl, where he recorded 2.5 sacks in an MVP-caliber performance. This feat alone will draw significant attention from NFL teams. Sweat’s 2024 season saw him finish with eight sacks, and over the past four years, he has accumulated 33 sacks. While he isn’t considered an elite edge rusher, his ability to consistently get to the quarterback and occasional dominant performances make him a strong candidate for a lucrative contract. Teams will be keen to evaluate his overall consistency and potential before making a decision.
1. Khalil Mack, Los Angeles Chargers (6)
Khalil Mack, a 34-year-old veteran for the Los Angeles Chargers, remains one of the most feared edge rushers in the league. Despite his advancing age, Mack finished second on the Chargers with six sacks in 2024 and led the team with 17 sacks in 2023. He has been a stalwart of the Chargers’ top defense, providing veteran leadership and a consistent threat to opposing quarterbacks. Mack has hinted at considering retirement but has also indicated his intention to play in 2025. His experience, production, and marketability will make him a highly sought-after player, and he is likely to sign a contract that reflects his status as one of the best edge rushers available.
Additional Players to Watch
Beyond the top 10, there are several other edge rushers who could make significant impacts in free agency. Derek Barnett, a 27-year-old from the Houston Texans, has shown flashes of brilliance and could be a solid pickup for a team in need. Baron Browning, 25, from the Arizona Cardinals, has the potential to develop further with increased playing time. Marcus Davenport, 28, of the Detroit Lions, has 20.5 sacks over the past two seasons, making him a reliable option. Dennis Gardeck, 27, from the Cardinals, has 16 sacks in the last three years and could be a hidden gem. Brandon Graham, 35, from the Eagles, has been a consistent force in the league for over a decade, and while his best years may be behind him, his experience is invaluable. Matthew Judon, 31, from the Falcons, has 20 sacks over the past two seasons and is a proven performer. Malcolm Koonce, 28, from the Raiders, has 10 sacks in the past three seasons and could be a solid mid-tier option. Charles Omenihu, 27, from the Chiefs, has 13 sacks in the last three years and offers versatility. Joseph Ossai, 25, from the Bengals, has shown promise and could be a cost-effective addition. Lastly, Josh Uche, 25, from the Chiefs, has 14 sacks over the past two seasons and is a rising star to watch.
The Future of the Edge Rusher Market
The market for edge rushers in the 2025 free agency period is shaping up to be highly competitive. With a mix of experienced veterans and up-and-coming stars, teams will have a range of options to consider. While some players like Khalil Mack and Haason Reddick come with their own sets of risks, their past performances and current abilities make them attractive targets. Younger players like Azeez Ojulari and Dayo Odeyingbo offer the potential for high upside, but their injury histories and inconsistent play will be factors in negotiations. As teams and players negotiate, the focus will be on finding the right balance between potential and reliability, all while staying within the constraints of the salary cap. The coming weeks will be crucial for both players and teams as they make their decisions, and NFL fans will be watching closely to see where these key defensive pieces land.
Conclusion
The 2025 NFL free agency period for edge rushers is poised to be a fascinating one. From veterans like Khalil Mack and DeMarcus Lawrence to young talents like Azeez Ojulari and Dayo Odeyingbo, the list of available players is both deep and diverse. Each player brings a unique set of skills and potential challenges to the table, making the decisions for teams all the more critical. As the market unfolds, one thing is clear: edge rushers continue to be among the most valuable and sought-after commodities in the NFL, and the right move could significantly bolster a team’s defensive arsenal. Stay tuned to see how these pieces fall into place and shape the league’s landscape for the upcoming season.
