NFL Players will head into free agency on March 31. Players will be shuffling about and looking for new homes. Teams will be looking to make adjustments so as to make room for new players that will be drafted in April. At the same time, they will also want to retain players that have proved their mettle.

Amidst this, here are the top five players from the secondary position who will be hoping to find new teams to play with.

1. Stephon Gilmore, Dallas Cowboys

The Dallas Cowboys have solidified their coaching staff by reaching an agreement with Mike Zimmer as their new DC. This announcement comes at a crucial juncture for the Cowboys, who face decisions regarding several defensive free agents. In a recent interview, CB Stephon Gilmore conveyed his eagerness to continue with the Cowboys.

Gilmore stated, “For sure, I want to be back. I for sure think we have the pieces to get to where we want to be, and I want to be a part of that.” With Gilmore’s market value estimated at $11 million per year, a figure well within the Cowboys’ financial reach, there’s optimism for fruitful contract negotiations between him and the team. Nevertheless, there will always be a market for a player like him in free agency.

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2. Budda Baker, Arizona Cardinals

The Arizona Cardinals are facing a significant decision regarding the future of Budda Baker. He’s their six-time Pro Bowl safety, whose contract is entering its final year with no guaranteed money left. Last offseason, Baker requested a trade after his plea for a contract extension was denied, leading to his absence from voluntary offseason activities.

For the Cardinals, the dilemma lies in whether to extend Baker’s contract, potentially making him one of the highest-paid safeties again or to explore trade options before he enters free agency next offseason.

3. Jaylon Johnson, Chicago Bears

Despite facing setbacks due to nagging injuries, Johnson’s potential for a breakout year was evident. However, negotiations for an early contract extension hit an impasse, leading to his request for a trade at the deadline. Despite interest from other teams, Chicago opted to retain him, recognizing his value to the team.

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With edge defender Montez Sweat recently signed to an extension and the franchise tag available, the stage is set for another round of negotiations with Johnson. His consistent performance, characterized by ball production and exceptional coverage skills, has steadily increased his value in the league. As discussions for his future with the team loom, his contributions on the field continue to highlight his importance to the Bears’ defense.

4. L’Jarius Sneed, Kansas City Chiefs

In the 2023 season, Sneed transitioned from primarily playing in the slot to becoming a mainstay on the outside. He also showcased his adaptability and skill set. Under the guidance of DC Steve Spagnuolo, known for demanding a lot from his cornerbacks, Sneed has thrived.

He has demonstrated sticky coverage skills and the ability to stick with receivers closely. While he could improve in terms of reducing penalties, his aggressive style of play adds value to any team’s defense. His 60 solo tackles and 18 assists in the regular season vouch for the same.

5. Antoine Winfield Jr, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Winfield’s versatility shines through his ability to excel in various defensive roles. Whether lining up in the box to stop the run, covering receivers in the slot, or playing as a roaming free safety, Winfield consistently makes an impact.  As a former second-round pick, Winfield has established himself as a difference-maker on the backend, contributing significantly to his team’s defensive success.

Thus, it is most likely that the Buccaneers retain the player. According to the NFL insider Jonathan Jones, Winfield is likely to get franchise-tagged. He expressed, “Winfield Jr. appears destined for the franchise tag at around $18.2 million next month unless the two sides can reach an agreement on a long-term contract that would pay the first-team All-Pro safety top-of-the-market money.”

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