Dyami Brown: The Late Bloomer
Dyami Brown, a 25-year-old wide receiver with the Washington Commanders, is quickly making a name for himself. After three relatively quiet seasons, Brown burst onto the scene in 2024, notching 30 receptions, which is more than he achieved in his first three years combined. His performance in Washington’s playoff run was particularly noteworthy, as he caught 14 passes for 229 yards and a touchdown across three games. Brown’s 75% catch rate and 4.46 speed make him a rare gem among the 2021 draft picks still on the rise. While he is a restricted free agent, his potential for growth and dual threat as a receiver and kick returner could make him a sought-after player in the market.
KaVontae Turpin: The Dangerous Dual-Threat
KaVontae Turpin, a 28-year-old wide receiver for the Dallas Cowboys, is perhaps the most intriguing restricted free agent this year. Known for his electrifying kick returns, Turpin is also developing as a reliable receiver. His ability to make big plays and his versatile skill set could attract significant interest from other teams. However, the Cowboys face a tough decision: whether to tender him a second-round offer at $5.2 million, which would require any team signing him to give up a second-round pick, or opt for a lower tender and risk losing him to a compelling offer. Turpin’s future is uncertain, but his potential is undeniable.
Darius Slayton: The Elusive Deep Threat
Darius Slayton, a 26-year-old wide receiver for the New York Giants, has been a solid but not spectacular performer throughout his career. In 2024, his role diminished with the arrival of Malik Nabers, resulting in 39 catches and two touchdowns. Despite this, Slayton maintains a career average of 15.0 yards per catch, showcasing his ability to stretch the field. With the Giants potentially selecting a rookie quarterback, Slayton might explore opportunities elsewhere where he can be a primary target. However, his connection with Daniel Jones could also influence his decision, making a re-signing with the Giants a viable option.
Marquise Brown: The Versatile Veteran
Marquise Brown, a 26-year-old wide receiver for the Kansas City Chiefs, joined the team midseason and quickly earned praise from quarterback Patrick Mahomes for his versatility and route-running. However, his production was lackluster, with just one game surpassing 50 receiving yards. This could be partly due to his shoulder injury, which limited his effectiveness. Despite this, Brown’s potential as a healthy and contributing player is attractive. The Chiefs might offer him a discounted deal to give him another chance, but his market value could rise if he demonstrates improved health and performance in the 2025 season.
Keenan Allen: The Experienced Slot Machine
Keenan Allen, a 32-year-old wide receiver for the Chicago Bears, brought his considerable experience to the team through an offseason trade. He served as a reliable slot receiver for rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, accumulating 70 receptions for 744 yards and seven touchdowns in 2024. Allen has expressed a desire to return to Los Angeles, whether with the Chargers or the Rams. His veteran presence and steady production make him a valuable asset, but his advanced age could limit his options. If the Bears decide against retaining him, Allen could find a new home where his expertise is valued.
DeAndre Hopkins: The Fallen Star
DeAndre Hopkins, a 32-year-old wide receiver for the Kansas City Chiefs, has seen a decline in his production. In his final four games with the Chiefs, he managed only five catches for 36 yards and a touchdown. The arrival of Hollywood Brown and the emergence of Xavier Worthy as the go-to receiver contributed to Hopkins’ diminished role. Once a dominant force, Hopkins’ 10.7 yards per catch in 2024 marked the lowest of his career. While he may no longer be the primary option, Hopkins still has value as a possession receiver. The Chiefs might offer him a reduced contract, but his market is uncertain given his recent performance.
Amari Cooper: The Consistent Performer
Amari Cooper, a 30-year-old wide receiver, found himself out of sync after a midseason trade to the Buffalo Bills. His absence in Cleveland allowed Jerry Jeudy to shine, which did not bode well for Cooper. Despite this, Cooper remains a capable receiver, just one year removed from a 1,000-yard season. His struggles can be attributed to the poor quarterback play in Cleveland and the challenges of adjusting to a new playbook. An optimistic team might see Cooper as a high-endWR2 or even a low-end WR1 with the potential to regain his form. His consistent track record makes him a valuable free agent.
Stefon Diggs: The Houston Hero
Stefon Diggs, a 31-year-old wide receiver, joined the Houston Texans last year but his stint was cut short by a torn ACL in Week 8. The Bills’ decision to trade him might have been influenced by a decline in his performances. In Houston, Diggs showed flashes of his former self as a reliable WR2 before his injury. His age and injury history might prevent him from being a top-tier WR1 again, but he could fit well in a role as a supporting cast member in a prolific offense. The Washington Commanders, for example, could be a perfect fit for his skill set.
Chris Godwin: The Team Leader
Chris Godwin, a 29-year-old wide receiver for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, is a leader and steady contributor. Similar to his teammate Mike Evans, Godwin is coming off a significant injury (a dislocated left ankle) as he enters free agency. His value is evident, as he would be a No. 1 receiver for many teams. However, retaining him will come at a cost, likely requiring a contract larger than his previous three-year, $60 million deal. The Buccaneers will need to decide if they can afford to keep him alongside Evans, or if they are willing to let him test the free agent market, where he could command a salary of $25 million or more.
Tee Higgins: The Top Free Agent
Tee Higgins, a 25-year-old wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals, is poised to be the most valuable free agent receiver in 2025. Despite being a WR2 for the Bengals, Higgins has shown the potential to be a No. 1 receiver for many other teams. His youth and prime career stage, along with the lack of top-tier receivers in the 2025 market, make him a rare commodity. The Bengals, known for their tight budget, face a challenging decision with multiple players seeking lucrative extensions. Higgins is worthy of a franchise tag to ensure he remains in the fold, even if he eventually hits free agency. His market appeal is high, and he could command top-tier offers from suitors eager to secure his services.
Other Notable Names
In addition to the top 10, several other wide receivers will also be available in the free agency market. Tyler Boyd of the Tennessee Titans, DJ Chark of the Los Angeles Chargers, Brandin Cooks of the Dallas Cowboys, Mack Hollins of the Buffalo Bills, Diontae Johnson of the Baltimore Ravens, Elijah Moore of the New York Jets, Josh Palmer of the Chargers, Demarcus Robinson of the Los Angeles Rams, Nick Westbrook-Ikhine of the Titans, and Mike Williams of the Pittsburgh Steelers are all names to watch. Each player brings unique skills and potential, making them valuable additions to any team looking to bolster their receiving corps.
The Free Agency Landscape
The wide receiver position in free agency is rich with talent and experience. From the late bloomer Dyami Brown to the fallen star DeAndre Hopkins, each player offers a different set of skills and values. Teams will need to carefully evaluate their needs and the players’ potential to make the best decisions. The 2025 market, particularly lacking in top-tier receivers, could see a significant bidding war for players like Tee Higgins and Chris Godwin. As the landscape evolves, the most lucrative and impactful contracts could reshape the NFL’s receiving corps in the coming season.
