At this time of year, NFL teams assess their rosters to determine which players are part of their present and future. For some, their time is in the past, and they will be allowed to leave via free agency or released outright. Let’s look at the top free agents at the defensive tackle position to monitor for your IDP rosters.
As fantasy managers prepare for drafts and assess their rosters, paying close attention to how free agency goes is vital in playing IDP.
Some players can go from receiving a 70-90% snap share to joining a team as part of a rotation and see that number drop to 50-60% snap share.
In IDP, the snap share is vital for players to have opportunities to score points in fantasy. And the more a defensive player is on the field, the more likely they are to amass points. Defensive tackles may not be as flashy as edge rushers or stat compilers like linebackers. Still, a defensive tackle who can make tackles and sack the quarterback is pivotal to a successful IDP team and provides a massive advantage to any team that can monopolize the market on these key players.
This article features free-agent Defensive Tackles who may most impact your IDP rosters. As players sign with new teams, this article will update with that information and explain how it affects their IDP potential.
Let’s get to the Free Agent Defensive Tackles!
Tier 1
Chris Jones (KC): In his eighth season with the Chiefs, Chris Jones is an elite defensive lineman. Jones is a true “hybrid” defensive lineman that can line up inside or out. Jones has been a consistent IDP contributor for the past seven years, highlighted by his 2022 season, where he recorded 44 tackles, 15.5 sacks, forced two fumbles, and recovered one fumble. Although getting older, Jones is still a Top 10 DL in IDP formats.
All signs point to Jones resigning with the reigning Super Bowl Champion, the Kansas City Chiefs. However, the NFL is jokingly called “Not For Long,” and where Jones signs next may significantly impact his status as an IDP star.
Jones has reportedly agreed to a five-year, 160 million-dollar contract with the Kansas City Chiefs. This will lock in Jones’ value for IDP in the foreseeable future.
Justin Madubuike (BAL): At 6’3″ and 305 pounds, Justin Madubuike has evolved into a solid DL for IDP formats. In 2023, Madubuike notched 13 sacks, two forced fumbles, and tallied 56 tackles. This production placed him as the #12 Defensive Lineman in most scoring formats. Madubuike is a solid contributor with a 60-75% snap share. With adequate tackle numbers and higher-than-average sacks, Madubuike will be a desirable DL, even more so if your format starts DT. Wherever Madubuike signs, he will surely be a Top 12 producer and a mainstay in your IDP lineup. The Ravens tagged Madubuike and will remain with the team, which may have been the best-case scenario for Madubuike.
Justin Madubuike has agreed to a contract to remain in Baltimore for four years at 98 million. This is the time to buy Madubuike in dynasty formats.
Christian Wilkins (MIA): Many thought the Miami Dolphins would use the franchise tag on Wilkins. However, the time has gone, and Wilkins will be allowed to test the free agent market. Wilkins has been one of the most consistent IDP performers at DT and is still only 28 years old. In 2023, he tallied 63 tackles, nine sacks, a forced fumble, and two fumble recoveries. Wilkins is a strong producer for tackles. His 2023 was his highest sack total to date. Regardless of where Wilkins signs, he is a must for IDP rosters.
Christian Wilkins has agreed to a four-year, 110-million dollar contract with the Las Vegas Raiders. This signing has slightly improved Wilkins’ IDP value. Playing alongside Maxx Crosby will improve both players’ value.
Thank you for reading my thoughts on the top free agents at defensive tackle. Please follow me @JGoody77 or links by @IDP_Plus in the “X” World and check out more of my articles on IDP+.
