The top NFL free agents of 2019 are dominated by big names

• NFL free agency begins March 11.
• The top NFL free agents this year are overwhelmingly defensive players, with only a few big-name offensive players.
• Only six players were given the franchise tag by their teams, meaning several talented players will hit the open market.

NFL free agency is nearly upon us, with teams allowed to talk opposing players beginning on March 11.

The deadline for teams to hit their players with the franchise tags has passed, with only six players receiving the exclusive, one-year deals and several other star players primed to hit the open market.

This year's class of free agents is heavy on defensive difference-makers and light on offensive weapons. In an era of exploding offenses, perhaps teams should spend big on the best defensive talent they can find. This year's free agent class has plenty of it.

Take a look below at the top NFL free agents in 2019:

* Denotes a player signed to the franchise tag

Jadeveon Clowney*

Position: DE/OLB

Previous team: Houston Texans

Rumored landing spots: Texans

One thing to know: The Texans placed the $15.9 million franchise tag on Clowney, who has posted nine sacks the last two seasons.

DeMarcus Lawrence*

Position: DE

Previous team: Dallas Cowboys

Rumored landing spots: Cowboys

One thing to know: The Cowboys placed the franchise tag on Lawrence after failing to come to terms on a long-term contract. Lawrence previously said he did not want to play on the franchise tag.

Le'Veon Bell

Position: RB

Previous team: Pittsburgh Steelers

Rumored landing spots: New York Jets, Oakland Raiders, Baltimore Ravens, Kansas City Chiefs

One thing to know: Bell's free agency is the story to watch after sitting out the year to preserve his body. Now 27 years old with a lot of miles, there's some risk in giving him a huge deal, but he will almost certainly get one, as he's the best offensive player available.