The 2025 NFL season is now underway, but several proven veterans remain unsigned. Each player on this list can step in and help right away. The top defensive names left are Justin Simmons, Asante Samuel Jr., Christian Wilkins, and Za’Darius Smith.
Top Remaining Defensive Free Agents as the 2025 Season Gets Started
Justin Simmons – Veteran Leader with Production
Justin Simmons is the best free agent available. He played for the Atlanta Falcons last season and showed he still has plenty left. Simmons finished 2024 with two interceptions and seven passes defended. He also provided leadership on and off the field, acting as the vocal presence in the secondary. Simmons continues to read plays quickly and line up teammates in the right spots. Simmons has made it clear that he is taking his time throughout the process and will likely sign with a Super Bowl contender. The two-time Pro Bowl safety remains one of the smartest and most reliable safeties in the game.
Asante Samuel Jr. – Young Corner with Questions
Asante Samuel Jr. is a very intriguing name on the market. The 25-year-old brings youth and upside, but his health may explain the delay in signing. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, Samuel had spinal fusion surgery this offseason. He is due for a CT scan in October to check his recovery progress. It is not yet clear how serious the neck injury is, which has likely slowed his free-agent market. Still, at 25 years old, Samuel has already shown he can cover top receivers and thrive in man coverage. If eventually 100 percent healthy, he can be a mid season signing and potential long-term starter for whichever team picks him up.
Christian Wilkins – Talent Overshadowed by Questions
Wilkins only started five games last season, but his resume still stands out. In 2023, he posted nine sacks from the interior, proving his ability to disrupt both the run and the pass. Wilkins first made his name with the Miami Dolphins as a force in the trenches. After being released by the Raiders, he is available for any team that needs defensive line help. The key will be avoiding any off-field concerns. If there is no issues, Wilkins is one of the most impactful defensive tackles on the market.
Za’Darius Smith – Veteran Edge Rusher Who Can Still Play
Za’Darius Smith showed last year that he still has juice off the edge. After being traded to Detroit last year, he logged four sacks in the final stretch of the season. That production added to an already strong career, which includes standout years in Green Bay. Smith uses power and technique to beat blockers and bring pressure. He can still help a defense in either a starting or rotational role. His track record and recent flashes prove he remains a dangerous pass rusher.
Valuable players still available
The top remaining defensive free agents of 2025 bring a mix of proven veterans and younger talent. Justin Simmons and Za’Darius Smith have the experience to help contenders right away. Christian Wilkins has true force on the defensive line, though his off-field situation could be a question. Then there’s Asante Samuel Jr., a young corner with upside who has an injury concern but can still be an impact player if fully healthy. Each of these names has the ability to help a defense once the right opportunity comes along.
Main Image: Stephen R. Sylvanie – Imagn Images
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