The NFL’s free agency period officially begins on Wednesday, March 12, at 4 p.m. ET, with the negotiating window opening two days earlier. With a record-high salary cap of $279.2 million per team, many players—especially lesser-known names—stand to benefit from lucrative contracts.
While big-name stars like Khalil Mack and Chase Young dominate headlines, several under-the-radar free agents could secure significant deals based on their recent performances. Below is a look at some of the top lesser-heralded players set to cash in during free agency.
Dayo Odeyingbo: A Rising Star Among Edge Rushers
Despite a crowded market of experienced edge rushers, Dayo Odeyingbo has positioned himself as one of the most valuable free agents. The 25-year-old Colts pass rusher led his team with 50 QB pressures last season and has recorded an impressive 30+ QB hits despite limited starts.
Teams looking to invest in young, high-upside edge rushers could offer him $16–$20 million per year, putting him in the same financial bracket as some of the league’s top defenders.
Aaron Banks and Drew Dalman: High-Value Offensive Linemen
Offensive linemen are always in demand, and Aaron Banks has emerged as one of the top guards available after Trey Smith was tagged by the Chiefs. Banks allowed only one sack in 471 pass-blocking snaps last season and could command $18–$20 million per year, similar to Robert Hunt’s five-year, $100 million deal from 2024.
Meanwhile, Drew Dalman, one of the league’s top-performing centers, is set to benefit from a weak free-agent market at his position. His PFF grade ranked fifth among centers, and despite missing time with injury, he could earn $13–$14 million annually.
Tre’von Moehrig (NFL)Tre’von Moehrig: Underrated Safety Ready for a Big Payday
The safety market has focused on Jevon Holland, but Tre’von Moehrig is quietly building his case as one of the top options. The 25-year-old safety has already started 64 career games and set personal bests with 104 tackles and 10 passes defensed last season. His elite run defense grade (87.5) makes him a valuable asset, and he could earn upwards of $12 million per year in free agency.
Jamien Sherwood: A Rising Linebacker Ready to Cash In
While top free-agent linebackers Zack Baun and Nick Bolton are expected to land major contracts, Jamien Sherwood is an intriguing alternative. The Jets linebacker recorded a career-high 158 tackles in 2024 and earned the 11th-best run defense grade among linebackers.
With linebacker contracts trending upward, Sherwood could secure a $12 million-per-year deal, making him a potential bargain compared to the market’s bigger names. As free agency unfolds, these lesser-known stars could be among the biggest beneficiaries of the NFL’s record salary cap.
