While live football games may not currently be gracing our televisions, the NFL remains in motion, with Free Agency Frenzy looming on the horizon. Over the next couple of months, millions of dollars and numerous signatures could significantly alter the league’s landscape for the 2024 season.
Some available free agents present both risk and reward. Factors such as advancing age, declining performance, injury concerns, and more could set low floors for these players, while the potential for significant improvement could lead to lucrative contracts.
Here are 15 of the most prominent boom-or-bust free agents of the 2024 offseason:
- Baker Mayfield
- Position: QB
- Age: 29
Mayfield’s career has been a mix of highs and lows, making his future uncertain. While there’s mutual interest between Mayfield and the Buccaneers, his destination and performance remain unpredictable.
- Gabe Davis
- Team: Buffalo Bills
- Position: WR
- Age: 25
Davis has shown flashes of brilliance but lacks consistency. His future team will hope to unlock his potential and provide stability.
- Calvin Ridley
- Team: Jacksonville Jaguars
- Position: WR
- Age: 29
Ridley’s career has been marked by ups and downs, making his future performance unpredictable. His next team will need to weigh the risks against his potential.
- Derrick Henry
- Team: Tennessee Titans
- Position: RB
- Age: 30
Henry’s dominance is unquestionable, but age and injuries could impact his performance moving forward. His next destination will determine his fantasy value.
- J.K. Dobbins
- Team: Baltimore Ravens
- Position: RB
- Age: 25
Dobbins’ potential is high, but injuries have been a concern. A playoff contender might take a chance on him with a short-term deal.
- Tony Pollard
- Team: Dallas Cowboys
- Position: RB
- Age: 27
Pollard’s role and value depend on his landing spot. His fantasy outlook will be influenced by the team that signs him and the terms of his contract.
- Mekhi Becton
- Team: New York Jets
- Position: OT
- Age: 25
Becton’s potential is still untapped due to injuries. A team willing to take a chance on him could reap significant rewards.
- Trent Brown
- Team: New England Patriots
- Position: OT
- Age: 31
Brown’s size and versatility make him an attractive option, but consistency has been an issue. A contender might take a chance on him for a shot at success.
- Chase Young
- Team: San Francisco 49ers
- Position: DE
- Age: 25
Young has shown glimpses of greatness but needs to prove himself on a consistent basis. A short-term deal could give him the opportunity to realize his potential.
- Jadeveon Clowney
- Team: Baltimore Ravens
- Position: OLB
- Age: 31
Clowney’s recent performance has been impressive, but consistency has been a concern throughout his career. A contender might take a chance on him for the right price.
- D.J. Reader
- Team: Cincinnati Bengals
- Position: DE
- Age: 30
Reader’s value lies in his consistency and impact on the defensive line. His future team will hope for a full recovery from his recent injury.
- Devin White
- Team: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- Position: LB
- Age: 26
White’s unique skill set makes him an intriguing option, but his limitations are also apparent. His next team will need to utilize him effectively to maximize his potential.
- Stephon Gilmore
- Team: Dallas Cowboys
- Position: CB
- Age: 33
Gilmore’s experience and talent make him an asset, but age could be a factor moving forward. His next team will need to manage expectations accordingly.
- Kenny Moore
- Team: Indianapolis Colts
- Position: CB
- Age: 29
Moore’s consistent performance makes him a valuable asset, but his future production remains uncertain. His next team will hope for continued success.
- Eddie Jackson
- Team: Chicago Bears
- Position: DB
- Age: 30
Jackson’s career has seen highs and lows, making his future performance unpredictable. His next team will hope to unlock his former potential.
These free agents represent both risk and reward for teams willing to take a chance on them in the 2024 offseason. The decisions made over the next few months could shape the league’s landscape for the upcoming season.