The Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles continue to prepare for the Super Bowl. However, the other 30 NFL teams are already looking ahead to next year, starting with free agency. Here’s a list of some of the best available players on defense.

DJ Reed of the New York Jets is perhaps the top cornerback on the market and several teams will be in the running for his services. He has pulled in six interceptions during his seven NFL seasons and only gave up two touchdowns during the 2024 season. Needless to say, his coverage skills are widely respected.

Another defensive back takes the second spot on this free-agent list. Miami Dolphins safety Jevon Holland has had a huge impact. He has had over 300 tackles, five sacks, five forced fumbles and five interceptions in just four NFL seasons. He’ll command top safety money, which ranges anywhere from $12 million to $16 million per year.

The third player is already making the big bucks –– Los Angeles Chargers edge rusher Khalil Mack. Mack is 34 years old and contemplating retirement, but if he does come back, his services will be in demand. The nine-time pro-bowler had 40 tackles and six sacks in 2024.

The day after the season ended, Mack had a lot to think about. “Definitely want to make that push and play some important games in the playoffs,” he said. “But yeah, trying not to think too far ahead but also want to give myself some time and some grace to a great spirit to kind of just vibe and spend some time with my family and just think things through.”

A pair of Eagles will also be in demand if they don’t re-sign in Philadelphia. Of course, they have one more game to play before they become free agents, but defensive end Josh Sweat has had a real impact on the number-one defense in the league, notching a team-high eight sacks.

Linebacker Zach Baun, meanwhile, is an even better story. He finished the regular season with 151 tackles in his first year with the team and has been nominated for Defensive Player of the Year.

“Honestly, it’s not even on the spectrum of a goal of mine,” Baun said of the potential accolade. “I really just try to be the best player I can be and maximize my potential and my ability. For that to be –– not the end result –– but an outcome of the work that I’ve put in, I’m really proud of myself.”

Baun has earned himself a payday and so have a couple of players on the other sideline in the 2025 Super Bowl. Kanas City Chiefs linebacker Nick Bolton and his teammate, safety Justin Reid, could be in line for a big payday.

Others include defensive end Haason Reddick of the New York Jets, defensive backs Charvarius Ward and Talanoa Hafunga of the San Francisco 49ers, and Minnesota Vikings cornerback Byron Murphy.

The free agent signing period officially starts March 12, 2025. However, teams often negotiate with players several days or more before that deadline.