In the upcoming NFL offseason, the focus shifts to the impactful interior defensive linemen, who are poised to hit free agency. These players, while less celebrated than exterior pass rushers, play a critical role in both run defense and pressuring quarterbacks. Free agency is expected to see some significant moves, with players like Poona Ford and D.J. Jones looking for new homes. Ford's performance with the Buffalo Bills and Jones' solid season with the Denver Broncos highlight the depth of talent available.

In particular, players like B.J. Hill of the Cincinnati Bengals, who has been a key component of their defensive line, and Levi Onwuzurike from the Detroit Lions, ready to step into a full-time role, are intriguing options for teams in need. Milton Williams of the Philadelphia Eagles demonstrated his prowess in the Super Bowl and is also expected to attract interest. With contracts projected by Spotrac giving insight into market values, teams will be keen to secure these defensive assets to bolster their defenses.

Mock drafts in the NFL often miss the mark by preceding free agency, which complicates roster needs. The veteran market plays a crucial role for teams looking to fill immediate gaps, with a blend of drafting the best talent and addressing positional needs being essential during draft day. A unique approach here is to apply mock draft strategies to free agency, evaluating the top remaining veterans and predicting where they might land based on available salary cap space.

This mock draft outlines potential signings for all 32 teams, providing insight into team needs and the best available players. Notable veterans like Ronnie Stanley and Chris Godwin are highlighted as key targets for teams such as the Patriots and Raiders, respectively. Each team’s strategy reflects their unique needs while keeping in mind budget constraints, which will ultimately heavily influence their decisions.

The New England Patriots are on the verge of a resurgence following two dismal seasons. With new head coach Mike Vrabel at the helm and rookie quarterback Drake Maye showing promise, the franchise is gearing up for a critical offseason. Armed with the most cap space in the league ($127.6 million) and the No. 4 pick in the upcoming draft, the Patriots have the tools to revamp their roster.

Key targets include veterans like left tackle Ronnie Stanley and right tackle Morgan Moses to solidify the offensive line, and wide receiver Chris Godwin to enhance the passing attack. Additionally, Milton Williams could bolster the defensive line, while the Patriots eye top prospects like Abdul Carter in the draft.

As the NFL free agency period approaches, teams are gearing up to make significant moves, particularly in the quarterback market and on the defensive front. Sam Darnold is projected to be a hot commodity, with the Tennessee Titans and the Las Vegas Raiders vying for his services after he posted impressive stats last season. The Titans' offer of $120 million, with a generous guarantee, seems to give them the edge.

On the offensive line, Ronnie Stanley is also in demand, with the New England Patriots and Baltimore Ravens both making compelling offers. The Patriots' willingness to provide a top-tier contract indicates their commitment to bolstering their offensive line. Meanwhile, edge rusher Josh Sweat is trending toward the Washington Commanders after a solid season with the Eagles. His ability to impact both the pass and run defense is appealing to teams looking to strengthen their front seven.

The NFC East is gearing up for a competitive season as teams actively position themselves against the reigning Philadelphia Eagles, fresh off a Super Bowl championship. The Washington Commanders have made headlines by acquiring Deebo Samuel, who previously expressed frustration over the Eagles' victory against his former team, the San Francisco 49ers, in the NFC Championship Game. Meanwhile, the Dallas Cowboys have reinforced their defensive lineup by signing Osa Odighizuwa to a lucrative four-year deal, raising questions about Milton Williams' impending free agency with the Eagles.

As three defensive tackles from the 2021 draft class—Odighizuwa, Williams, and Alim McNeill of the Lions—are all hitting a pivotal moment in their careers, Williams may need to secure a deal in the range of $80 to $100 million to remain with the Eagles. The New England Patriots could play a significant role in this scenario as they look to rebuild their defense under new head coach Mike Vrabel and have targeted Williams as a foundational piece.