We are through the main transaction portion of the 2024 NFL offseason, as teams have reloaded with free agent signings, trade acquisitions and draft picks. OTA workouts are rolling, and mandatory minicamps are closer than you think. But a handful of unsigned free agents are still looking for a roster, and there's always the possibility of a trade or two before training camps start up in July.
With that in mind, let's find ideal landing spots for 14 veteran free agents — plus one big-name receiver who requested a trade — to fill remaining team needs or add depth. When I evaluate player-to-team matches, I'm looking at how each guy fits in a scheme, how each might be able to help immediately and whether the team has the cap space to add players. This late in the process, most of these players will end up signing one-year, low-risk deals that include incentives to make some more cash.
Let's get to it, starting with a ball-hawking defensive back.
Best team fit: Houston Texans
Derek Stingley Jr., Houston's No. 1 corner, is on the verge of becoming a real star. And the Texans did add to the defensive back room this offseason, with former first-round corners Jeff Okudah and CJ Henderson coming aboard on one-year deals and Kamari Lassiter being one of the team's second-round picks. Lassiter is expected to play in the slot, so it would make sense for the Texans to take a look at bringing in Howard to compete for the job opposite of Stingley.
Howard has solid perimeter coverage traits and a ball-hawking mentality that has led to 29 career interceptions. At worst, Houston would be adding more secondary depth as it gears up for what could be a great season and deep run into the playoffs.
Best team fit: Denver Broncos
With the
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