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Free agency starts as soon as the new league campaign kicks off in the NFL. With trade deals, free agency, and a draft spanning the offseason months, this period can be as exciting as the activity on the pitch.
There are two categories of free agents in the NFL, restricted and unrestricted. During the legal tampering period, NFL teams can start talking to free agents two days before the beginning of free agency.
The next league year and NFL Free Agency begins in earnest on March 15, 2023, at 4 p.m. ET. Effective at noon on March 13, clubs can legitimately speak with players and agencies.
Which NFL players need the free agency most?
#1 - Cooper Rush, QB, Dallas Cowboys
After Dak Prescott sustained a thumb injury that kept the quarterback out for more than a month, Cooper Rush skillfully kept the Dallas Cowboys afloat. Rush amassed 775 throwing yards, four scores, and zero interceptions in his first four appearances while leading his club to a flawless 4-0 record.
One of the most fascinating quarterbacks to enter the open market this summer is Rush. He had primarily served as the Cowboys' backup quarterback for the previous five years. Before the current campaign, he played in just ten games.
Rush performed admirably, which bodes well for his chances heading into free agency, during the short period he was Dallas' starting quarterback. The 29-year-old is now preparing to start for another team in 2023.
He has established himself as a reliable backup alternative for teams seeking coverage at the position, even if he does not end up as a starter. He has demonstrated his ability to lead an offensive unit, enabling him to remain in the league for some time.
#2 - Saquon Barkley, RB, New York Giants
Saquon Barkley is the New York Giants' real game-changer. He has participated in every game thus far this campaign and has established a personal record for running yards.
Barkley's receiving totals as a receiver out of the backfield will drastically rise if you insert him into an offense featuring playmakers at wideout. On a second deal, running backs can be risky, but Barkley is one of the best players among his contemporaries.
#3 - Jimmy Garoppolo, QB, San Francisco 49ers
Jimmy Garoppolo, who will be a free agent in 2023, won't join the San Francisco 49ers until the starting role is assured. Given San Francisco's prior commitment to Trey Lance and the unexpected rise of youngster Brock Purdy, that will be a huge thing to ask for.
Garoppolo will leave the 49ers if he isn't guaranteed to start there.
Everyone has a viewpoint on Jimmy Garoppolo, but the truth is that he still has a lot to offer the franchises looking to improve. Despite struggling to stay fit, he has often shown that he is a player who can bring his A-game.
