With some defensive tackles expected to be filmed in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft and some plug-and-go starters available in free agency, DT's position will ensure that this offseason overhaul is You can see it.
We voted for a group of writers around SB Nation to gather consensus rankings on players.
Players will be removed from the list as they will re-sign with their current team until the opening of the free agency in March.
Others voted on: Greg Gaines, Javonkinlow, Jalan Reed, Sebastian Joseph Day, Morgan Fox, Tarshawn Wharton, Taeben Brian, Derrick Nnady, Bobby Brown, Tedarel Slaton, Puna Ford
8. New York Jets, Leki Fotz
After signing a one-year $2.5 million contract with the Jets, FOTU was able to play in two games after suffering a training camp hamstring injury and a knee injury during the season. He was designated to return later in the season, but the jets left the playoff photos and he stayed in the injured reserve. That being said, it should not remain too far in the offseason. At 334 pounds, he's the big guy in the middle of your line.
7. Curry Campbell, Miami Dolphins
Campbell turned 39 just before the start of the 2025 season and hasn't decided whether to play this season, so we can understand why there is some difference in his rankings. Campbell received one vote for first place, but was completely removed from another voter's top 10. He played at least 12 games per season for 17 years, starting 17 games in 2024 in Miami and Atlanta. He still plays at a high level and has offered five sacks, 52 tackles and 12 QB hits this year. He made just $2 million in 2024.
6. Adam Butler, Las Vegas Raiders
If you're looking for value, Butler might be your best bet. He made just $1.8 million for the Raiders in 2024 and turned 31 this offseason. He finished the year with five bags, 10 QB hits and 65 tackles as the primary starter for the first time in his career. He played nearly 77% of Vegas' defensive snaps, the farthest on the team. After a good year, he should definitely pursue the first truly rich contract of his career.
4t. Milton Williams, Philadelphia Eagles
Williams ranked third in one of our votes, scoring five sacks and 10 QB hits in 2024 as the Eagles' second DT. He will only turn 26 in April and there is plenty of room for further growth. The previous three-round pick has an elite pass rush grade from PFF, but is struggling to run.
4t. Levi Onuzlique of the Detroit Lions
Former second pick in 2021, Onwuzurike missed his sophomore season after back surgery. He started 10 NFL games, resulting in 42 playing. In 2024 he had a best season with 13 QB hits and 1.5 sacks, recording the most snaps for Detroit lineman at nearly 58%.
3. OsaOdighizuwa, Dallas Cowboys
Odighizuwa was a four-year starter for the Cowboys, with an average of 44 tackles and 3.4 sacks per season. He really reached after passerby in 2024, setting his career-best in the bag and exploded for a 23 QB hit. The previous third round turned 27 just before the start of the season and is definitely in line for a long-term deal.
2. DJ Jones, Denver Broncos
After finishing his three-year, $30 million contract with Denver, Jones was a seven-year starter for the 49ers and Broncos. The durable defender played the second-least snap in the Broncos DT in 2024. PFF evaluates above average ratings as pass rushes and average as run defenders.
1. BJ Hill, Cincinnati Bengals
Our clear top choice, Hill has recorded over 50 tackles in each of the last four seasons with the Bengals, averaging four bags per season. The previous three-round pick is away from a three-year, $30 million contract. He will be 30 this offseason so he will leave the year remaining in the tank, and he is a destructive instant starter for the team he signs to reinforce their interiors.
Other free agent defensive tackles
- Chris Williams
- Kurt Hinish
- Austin Johnson
- Mike Hecht
- John Jenkins
- Jerry Tilley
- linval Joseph
- Kevin Givens
- Jonathan Hankins
- Jeremiah Ledbetter
- Maurice Hurst
- Benito Jones
- Daniel Eculet
- Halil Davis
- Chauncey Golston
- Mike Pennell
- Eddie Goldman
- Kyle Peko
- Quinton Jefferson
- Jordan Phillips
- Larell Murchison
- Teaart tart
- Marlon Davidson
- Marlon Tuipulotu
- James Lynch
- Roy Lopez
- Tacon Graham
- Mario Edwards
Recently released defensive tackles
These defensive tackles were released after the rankings were compiled up until the 2025 league year.
Sheldon Rankins
The former saints, Jets and Texans DT are looking for a fourth team four years after being released by the Bengali. He signed a two-year, $24.5 million contract a year ago, but only played in seven games in 2024 after missing three in the last seven games of a hamstring injury and a viral illness. That was it. If he is healthy, he will soon become a top option in the market.
