The 2025 NFL free agency period is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, especially for teams in need of reinforcements along the interior offensive line. With multiple high-level guards available, this class stands out as one of the best in years. The Kansas City Chiefs, New Orleans Saints, and Chicago Bears all have a pressing need at guard, and they’ll be among the most aggressive suitors when the legal tampering window opens from March 10th to 12th.
Of the top 10 available guards, five rank in Pro Football Focus’s Top 30 in the Top 100 Available Free Agents, highlighting the elite talent hitting the market. While some of these players may ultimately re-sign with their current teams, there is a strong possibility that a few of them will be available to help fortify offensive lines across the league.
Why Guard Play Matters
In today’s NFL, the teams with the best offensive lines tend to be the most successful, particularly in the NFC. The Detroit Lions and Philadelphia Eagles, widely considered the two best teams in the conference last season, also boasted the best two offensive lines in football. Dominant guard play ensures quarterback protection, offensive balance, and a reliable run game, all of which are critical factors for championship contenders.
With interior pass rushers becoming more dominant than ever, teams are investing heavily in guards. Last season saw some massive guard contracts, with the top earners in 2024 setting the standard for what this year’s free agents could command:
Highest-Paid Guards in 2024
1. Landon Dickerson, Eagles – $21M per year (4 years, $84M)
2. Chris Lindstrom, Falcons – $20.5M per year (5 years, $102.5M)
3. Robert Hunt, Panthers – $20M per year (5 years, $100M)
4. Quenton Nelson, Colts – $20M per year (4 years, $80M)
5. Sam Cosmi, Commanders – $18.5M per year (4 years, $74M)
6. Zach Martin, Cowboys – $18.4M per year (2 years, $36.9M)
7. Quinn Meinerz, Broncos – $18M per year (4 years, $72M)
8. Elgton Jenkins, Packers – $17M per year (4 years, $68M)
9. Jonah Jackson, Rams – $17M per year (3 years, $51M)
With this precedent set, some of the top free-agent guards could be looking at similar paydays, especially those still in their prime.
Top Guards Available in Free Agency
1. Trey Smith (Chiefs)
• PFF Rank: #2
• Smith has been a vital part of the Chiefs’ offensive line, but Kansas City might let him test the market given their struggles in pass protection. If he becomes available, expect a bidding war.
2. Will Fries (Colts)
• PFF Rank: #24
• Fries became an internet sensation after being photographed next to teammate Wesley M. French, but the Colts may not be able to retain him. With Indianapolis seemingly in transition, Fries could seek a better financial opportunity elsewhere.
3. Teven Jenkins (Bears)
• PFF Rank: #25
• Bears fans have been vocal about the team’s interior offensive line issues, and with Jenkins hitting free agency, Chicago will need to decide whether to keep him or explore other options.
4. Kevin Zeitler (Lions)
• PFF Rank: #27
• At 34 years old, Zeitler remains one of the most consistent veteran guards in the league. If the Lions want him back, it makes sense for him to stay, but if Detroit looks to get younger, Zeitler could command good money elsewhere.
5. James Daniels (Steelers)
• PFF Rank: #28
• Still only 27 years old, Daniels could demand a lucrative contract. However, coming off an Achilles injury, teams may be hesitant to offer him top-tier money.
6. Brandon Scherff (Jaguars)
• PFF Rank: #59
• After an injury-riddled stretch from 2018-2022, Scherff played a full season in 2024, which should increase his market value. Teams looking for a solid but cost-effective veteran will be interested.
7. Zack Martin (Cowboys)
• PFF Rank: #60
• The future Hall of Famer is nearing the end of his career, but he still plays at a high level. If the Cowboys don’t re-sign him, he will immediately become the most experienced elite guard on the market.
8. Patrick Mekari (Ravens)
• PFF Rank: #64
• Mekari is a versatile lineman who can play multiple positions. His ability to step in at guard or tackle makes him an appealing option for teams needing depth.
9. Aaron Banks (49ers)
• PFF Rank: #73
• Banks has been inconsistent at times, but when healthy, he’s an effective run blocker. He could be a solid signing for teams that prioritize the ground game.
10. Will Hernandez (Cardinals)
• PFF Rank: #93
• Hernandez isn’t a superstar, but he’s a physical mauler who could be a great value signing for teams that need to reinforce their run-blocking.
Who Will Be the Biggest Spenders?
Several teams will aggressively pursue these guards, but three teams stand out:
1. Kansas City Chiefs
• Why?
• The Chiefs desperately need offensive line help, especially on the interior. If they don’t bring back Trey Smith, expect them to be major players in the market.
2. New Orleans Saints
• Why?
• The Saints have been patching up their offensive line for years, and Derek Carr (if he’s the quarterback) needs better protection. With limited cap space, they may go after a mid-tier guard like Brandon Scherff or Patrick Mekari.
3. Chicago Bears
• Why?
• The Bears’ offensive line struggled last season, and if they move on from Teven Jenkins, they’ll need a new starter. Expect them to target a younger option like James Daniels or Will Fries.
Final Thoughts: A Free Agency Frenzy
With five of the top 30 free agents playing guard, expect an extremely competitive market. Interior offensive line play has never been more important, and the teams that land top guards will significantly improve their offenses.
With March 10th approaching, front offices are already preparing their pitches, and fans should be ready for a whirlwind of movement in the coming weeks. Which teams will come out on top? We’ll soon find out.
(All Players Photos are from their Instagram Feed.)
