Contract-Year Winners! Seven Ascending Players Poised to Break the Bank in 2025 NFL Free Agency
As the NFL calendar turns towards the 2024 season, a select group of players are entering pivotal contract years, poised to showcase their talents and cash in on lucrative extensions. These ascending stars have flashed exceptional potential and are ready to take the next step towards becoming the league’s elite. Here are seven players who are expected to make a significant impact in 2024 and set themselves up for massive paydays in 2025 free agency:
Quarterback: Trevor Lawrence, Jacksonville Jaguars
The former No. 1 overall pick has shown flashes of brilliance in his first two seasons, despite playing on a rebuilding Jaguars team. Lawrence possesses a rare combination of size, athleticism, and arm strength. If he can take the next step in his development and lead Jacksonville to a playoff berth, he will be in line for a massive contract that could make him one of the highest-paid quarterbacks in the NFL.
Running Back: Najee Harris, Pittsburgh Steelers
Harris has been a workhorse for the Steelers since being drafted in the first round in 2021. He has rushed for over 1,000 yards in each of his first two seasons and is on pace to surpass 2,000 yards from scrimmage in 2024. Harris’s combination of size, power, and receiving ability makes him one of the most versatile running backs in the league. If he can continue to produce at a high level, he will be one of the most sought-after free agents in 2025.
Wide Receiver: Christian Watson, Green Bay Packers
Watson emerged as a star in 2023, leading the Packers in receiving yards and touchdowns. The 6-foot-4 wideout is a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses with his combination of size, speed, and athleticism. Watson is entering the final year of his rookie contract and is expected to command a massive payday if he continues to develop into one of the top receivers in the league.
Tight End: Evan Engram, Jacksonville Jaguars
Engram has been a consistent producer throughout his career, but he is poised for a breakout season in 2024. With the Jaguars adding Trevor Lawrence at quarterback and Christian Kirk at wide receiver, Engram will have plenty of opportunities to showcase his pass-catching abilities. Engram is entering the final year of his contract and is looking to prove that he is one of the top tight ends in the NFL.
Defensive End: Nick Bosa, San Francisco 49ers
Bosa has quickly established himself as one of the most dominant pass rushers in the NFL. In his first three seasons, he has recorded 41.5 sacks, including 18.5 in 2023. Bosa is entering the final year of his rookie contract and is expected to receive a massive extension that will make him one of the highest-paid defensive players in the league.
Linebacker: Tremaine Edmunds, Buffalo Bills
Edmunds has been a tackling machine for the Bills since being drafted in the first round in 2018. He has recorded over 100 tackles in each of his first five seasons and has emerged as one of the best young linebackers in the NFL. Edmunds is entering the final year of his rookie contract and is looking to cash in on a long-term extension that will keep him in Buffalo for years to come.
Cornerback: Jaire Alexander, Green Bay Packers
Alexander has established himself as one of the top playmakers in the NFL. He has recorded 14 interceptions in his first five seasons, including five in 2023. Alexander is entering the final year of his rookie contract and is expected to command a massive payday if he continues to play at a high level. The Packers are likely to make him one of their highest-paid players in order to keep him in Green Bay.
These seven players are poised to have breakout seasons in 2024 and set themselves up for massive paydays in 2025 free agency. If they can live up to their potential, they will become some of the most sought-after players on the open market. The NFL is a business, and these players are looking to cash in on their hard work and dedication.