The 2021 NFL free agent class is certainly filled with many noteworthy names that are set to hit the open market. Considering the high-volume of activity already between many teams this offseason, including two large quarterback trades with the names of Carson Wentz, Matthew Stafford and Jared Goff being involved, NFL fans should buckle up for even more action. Some of the most notable names to keep an eye on include standout offensive tackles Trent Williams and Mitchell Schwartz, playmaking wide receivers Kenny Golladay, Will Fuller, and Curtis Samuel, versatile tight end Hunter Henry, and premier edge rushers in Melvin Ingram, Jadeveon Clowney, and Trey Hendrickson. Along with many of these top names, the 2021 free agent class also offers a lot of depth to help improve teams who choose to be active but are not successful in landing one of these top players. 

Some NFL teams have already made crucial moves towards ensuring future success by franchise tagging, extending their existing players or making new signings. The GOAT, Tom Brady, signed a two-year extension with the SB champ Tampa Bay Buccaneers as well as fellow wide receiver Chris Godwin, edge rusher Shaq Barrett, and beloved tight end Rob Gronkowski. The Dallas Cowboys signed Dak Prescott to a 4-year $160 mil contract that silenced critics saying he wouldn’t be their QB long term. Running back Aaron Jones, an integral part of Green Bay’s offense signed a 4-year $48 mil deal to remain a Packer. The Chicago Bears franchise tagged star wide reiver Allen Robinson and the New York Giants locked up their best defensive player in Leonard Williams on a 1-year tag as well. The New England Patriots signed quarterback Cam Newton, tight end Jonnu Smith, and edge rusher Matthew Judon to lucrative deals. The Buffalo Bills have also signed three important pieces in offensive lineman Daryl Williams and Jon Feliciano and outside linebacker Matt Milano on defense to multi-year deals respectively. 

In addition to these prior moves, some names, including superstar quarterbacks Russell Wilson and DeShaun Watson as well as Sam Darnold, have been constantly rumored to be traded to new teams. With the retirement of Drew Brees, the New Orleans Saints could be in the mix along with the San Francisco 49ers and Chicago Bears for seeking one of these players as they have impressive rosters but have sizable needs at the quarterback position. And yet, this year’s NFL draft offers many attractive options as well in Clemson’s Trevor Lawrence, BYU’s Zach Wilson, Ohio State’s Justin Fields, Alabama’s Mac Jones, and North Dakota State’s Trey Lance. It will be fascinating to see how teams such as San Francisco, New Orleans, and Chicago will gauge their options in the next coming weeks via free agency or draft.

The most intriguing part of free agency is matchmaking unrestricted players to new teams and to foresee what impact it will have for themselves and for their new team’s success. This is where NFL fans find out how important scheme fit is and how truly talented some of these top players are. Especially in the NFL where there is a tremendous amount of variation in outcomes each and every season, this year’s NFL free agency will be one to watch as the paradigm will likely shift once again.