NFL Offseason and Projected Free Agent Safeties for 2026

The Super Bowl has wrapped up, and the offseason has officially kicked off. With that, the NFL is gearing up for free agency as teams strategize on their current players while keeping a watchful eye on potential free agents for the upcoming 2026 season.

Today, we’ll explore the projected free agent safeties for 2026, offering our best estimates regarding how these players might be valued by NFL teams.

1.) Jaylin Hawkins, New England Patriots

Statistics for 2025: 71 tackles, 45 solo, 1.5 sacks, 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery, 4 interceptions, 6 pass breakups

It’s hard to deny that Jaylin Hawkins had an impressive season—arguably, he outperformed every other safety in the 2025 league. He finished with four interceptions and an EPA of -14.8, as per Next Gen Stats. Plus, he demonstrated solid run defense with 20 stops.

2.) Kobe Bryant, Seattle Seahawks

Statistics for 2025: 66 tackles, 39 solo, 1 forced fumble, 4 interceptions, 7 pass breakups

Bryant was a key player in the Seahawks’ defense and was instrumental in their Super Bowl return. According to stats, he achieved four interceptions in 2025 and had a surprisingly strong catch percentage of -8.1 with a passer rating of 59.6.

3.) Brian Cook, Kansas City Chiefs

Statistics for 2025: 85 tackles, 50 solo, 6 pass breakups

While Cook might not shine as brightly as some other stars on the Chiefs, he had a standout year in 2025. He ranked fourth among safeties in pass breakups with significant contributions, logging 85 tackles across the season.

4.) Jaylen Thompson, Arizona Cardinals

Statistics for 2025: 95 tackles, 58 solo, 1 sack, 1 forced fumble, 6 pass breakups

If Thompson had been on a different team, he might have garnered more attention. He provided impressive coverage in addition to maintaining a catch rate of -1.1%. He ranked 15th among safeties with 72 solo tackles.

5.) Kevin Byard, Chicago Bears

Statistics for 2025: 93 tackles, 61 solo, 7 interceptions, 8 pass breakups

Even at 32 years old, Byard had perhaps the most remarkable season of his career, notching seven interceptions. His EPA for each target was -12.7. Honestly, if he were younger, he might have topped this list. Still, it’s unclear whether he can replicate this success in 2026.

6.) Camren Karl, Los Angeles Rams

Statistics for 2025: 122 tackles, 79 solo, 2 sacks, 1 forced fumble, 2 interceptions, 5 pass breakups

Karl truly had his best season yet in 2025. Remarkably, he intercepted two passes in the regular season and added another in the playoffs, which contributed to the Rams’ crucial victory against the Bears.

7.) Donovan Wilson, Dallas Cowboys

Statistics for 2025: 71 tackles, 39 solo, 1 forced fumble, 2 interceptions, 5 pass breakups

Even though the Cowboys’ defense struggled overall, Wilson emerged as a standout player. He made two interceptions and maintained a commendable catch rate. Surrounded by a stronger defensive unit, he could really shine.

8.) Jaquan Brisker, Chicago Bears

Statistics for 2025: 93 tackles, 52 solo, 1 sack, 1 interception, 8 pass breakups

Brisker is one of the most adaptable safeties out there. He boasts a solid PFF grade and has recorded 21 defensive stops, showcasing his effectiveness both in run defense and coverage with four interceptions throughout his career.

9.) Arohi Gilman, Baltimore Ravens

Statistics for 2025: 90 tackles, 50 solo, 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery, 1 touchdown, 9 pass breakups

Gilman often goes unnoticed playing alongside some of the game’s best, yet he has performed admirably since his trade to the Ravens. He managed to hold off opposing offenses effectively, showing a noteworthy catch rate.

10.) Nick Cross, Indianapolis Colts

Statistics for 2025: 120 tackles, 72 solo, 2.5 sacks, 1 forced fumble, 1 interception, 5 pass breakups

While Cross didn’t have the stunning season he had in the previous years, he remains one of the league’s top tackling safeties. Ideally, he thrives in a defensive setup that allows him to play nearer to the scrimmage line.