2021 NFL free agents: Linebacker

With the NFL's franchise-tag deadline in the past, attention moves to the opening of the league's free-agent negotiating window on March 15.

These are the best linebackers slated to hit the market.

By position
QB | RB | WR | TE | OL
DL | ED | LB | CB | S
Top 100

Linebackers

1. Matt Milano

While he's coming off a somewhat inconsistent year (mostly due to injury), Milano's speed and coverage abilities have been essential to the Bills. Buffalo surrendered 24.1 points per game with Milano in the lineup last year, and 29.8 in the six games he missed.

2. K.J. Wright

Wright was the NFL's only linebacker with 10-plus pass breakups and tackles for a loss last season. The veteran won't take a discount to stay with the Seahawks, so he could be the short-term answer for another team facing questions at linebacker.

3. Jayon Brown

Brown has been solid since joining Tennessee as a fifth-round pick in 2017. The 26-year-old could be in line for a big payday, and the cap-strapped Titans may not have the funds to keep him.

4. B.J. Goodson

Goodson flourished in his only season with the Browns. The 27-year-old led his team with 91 tackles and added six pass breakups plus two interceptions. He could take advantage of a shallow pool of inside linebackers.

5. Eric Wilson

Most linebackers are better at stuffing the run than dropping into coverage. Wilson is the opposite. He collected eight pass breakups and three interceptions in his fourth year with the Vikings, and he also notched three sacks.