In Pete Prisco’s latest ranking of potential free agents, the top spot surprisingly goes to Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins, despite defensive tackle Chris Jones of the Kansas City Chiefs arguably outperforming him in their respective positions.
While Cousins may not excel as Jones does on the field, his ranking is attributed to the value of his position. As a capable quarterback, Cousins possesses the potential to lead a team to a Super Bowl victory, a trait highly sought after in the league.
Despite his recent Achilles tendon injury, Cousins is expected to be ready for the start of the 2024 season, making him an attractive option for teams in need of a starting quarterback. His impact on the Vikings was evident when he was sidelined, highlighting his importance to the team.
The remainder of Prisco’s top 10 list is dominated by defensive players, with Jones taking the second spot. This reflects the deep pool of defensive talent available in this year’s free agency class, particularly in the defensive line category. However, franchise tag designations could potentially alter the landscape of available players.
Noteworthy players in the defensive line, cornerback, linebacker, and wide receiver positions are highlighted in the list, showcasing the diverse talent pool available to teams. Prisco emphasizes the importance of targeting players in the 26-28 age range to ensure long-term value for teams.
While quarterbacks like Cousins top the list due to their positional value, Prisco acknowledges that quarterbacks are not always the best players at their positions. Nevertheless, the quarterback position remains the most coveted in the league.
Overall, the free agency class of 2024 presents a solid opportunity for teams to enhance their rosters with impactful players capable of making significant contributions on the field.