2012 NFL Off-Season Thread

[EastCoastNiner]

What are your teams needs? What do you want to see happen? Who's your team going to draft?

 

 

For the Patriots:

 

Brb, backing up the Brinks truck.

Brb, signing Mario Williams

Brb, signing Marcus Colston

Brb, signing Brandon Lloyd

 

Problem?

 

 

 

The 49er's just need to get some offensive depth, and maybe go after Manning if they so please...........

[htownborn]

Texans

 

What are your teams needs

 

Not much other than maybe another go to receiver and maybe some upgrades at CB and DT for the most part I like what we have.

 

What do you want to see happen

 

re-sign Foster, Myers, and Mario (if he takes a pay cut if not then sign and trade him)

release Jacoby Jones and Matt Leinart

sign either Reggie Wayne or Dwyane Bowe if that doesn't happen draft a WR.

 

Who's your team going to draft

 

Receiver more than likely. I would like someone like a Alshon Jeffery or Michael Floyd to fall to us but we have a better chance at guys like Juron Criner and Mohamod Sanu unless we trade up which I can see us possibly doing. If we don't draft a WR I think we should get a DT. I would like someone like a Dontari Poe or draft up and get the Houston product Michael Brockers.

Edited February 7, 2012 by htownborn

[NomarFachix]

Giants

 

What are your teams needs

 

#2 CB, MLB, starting TE, #1 RT, HB

 

What do you want to see happen

 

Try hard to re-sign T2 and Goff. If not T2, bring back Ross. Manningham will likely be gone, so maybe bring back Steve Smith for cheap or just roll with Jernigan/Barden. Jacobs will likely be cut, so look for a change of pace back to compliment Bradshaw. See what run mauling tackles are out there and look for a dependable pass-catching TE.

 

Who's your team going to draft

 

Go after the best MLB (Burfict?) or TE (Fleener/Charles?). BPA most likely.

[fish7718]

Cowboys

 

What are your teams needs

 

DB, DL, Interior Linemen

 

What do you want to see happen

 

I'd like to draft another lineman in the first round, take a CB in the second round, or vice versa. Sign some veteran help for the positions of need, if we got cap make make a splash on a big name DB.

 

Who's your team going to draft

 

Wish List

1. Morris Claiborne

2. David DeCastro

3. Dre Kirkpatrick

4. Cordy Glenn

5. Devon Still

Edited February 7, 2012 by flsh7718

[DunkinDerozan]

Giants

 

What are your teams needs

 

#2 CB, MLB, starting TE, #1 RT, HB

 

What do you want to see happen

 

Try hard to re-sign T2 and Goff. If not T2, bring back Ross. Manningham will likely be gone, so maybe bring back Steve Smith for cheap or just roll with Jernigan/Barden. Jacobs will likely be cut, so look for a change of pace back to compliment Bradshaw. See what run mauling tackles are out there and look for a dependable pass-catching TE.

 

Who's your team going to draft

 

Go after the best MLB (Burfict?) or TE (Fleener/Charles?). BPA most likely.

 

I agree with almost everything. I don't think we have a need at CB with Thomas coming back from injury. With him we still have Webster and Ross AND Amukamara will be even better next year. We need a good TE for sure and a RT. HB is a huge point of need, a lot more then some people seem to think. I don't believe Bradshaw is the answer unless he suddenly improves dramatically over the offseason. Jacobs might not be gone, but he isn't going to be a factor at all next year. I like Da'rell Scott or whatever his name is, hopefully he will be given some carrys this year. His speed is unreal.

 

The Giants usually draft BPA, so I don't see that changing. It might be interesting to see if they try to move up in the draft considering the have the last pick.

[NomarFachix]

I don't think we have a need at CB with Thomas coming back from injury. With him we still have Webster and Ross AND Amukamara will be even better next year. We need a good TE for sure and a RT.

Thomas and Ross are free agents, we'd have to re-sign one (or both) of them.

[AboveLegit]

Redskins

 

What are your teams needs

QB, WR, CB, Oline, LB

 

What do you want to see happen

If we're unable to get RG3 or Blackmon, I would like to see us trade down, acquire more picks, draft Floyd in the middle of the first, then use our additional picks to shore up the offensive line. I'd also be willing to sign Peyton Manning given that he's absolutely 100% healthy and draft a guy like Ryan Tannehill or Nick Foles in the second.

 

 

Who's your team going to draft

1. RG3

2. Blackmon

3. Ryan Tannehill

[DunkinDerozan]

Thomas and Ross are free agents, we'd have to re-sign one (or both) of them.

 

Ok, then I hope we get Thomas back. Ross is alright, but i'd prefer to give Amukamara some playing time as the third string.

[DunkinDerozan]

Redskins

 

What are your teams needs

QB, WR, CB, Oline, LB

 

What do you want to see happen

If we're unable to get RG3 or Blackmon, I would like to see us trade down, acquire more picks, draft Floyd in the middle of the first, then use our additional picks to shore up the offensive line. I'd also be willing to sign Peyton Manning given that he's absolutely 100% healthy and draft a guy like Ryan Tannehill or Nick Foles in the second.

 

 

Who's your team going to draft

1. RG3

2. Blackmon

3. Ryan Tannehill

 

Who/what do you think the Redskins will have to give up to move up to the 3rd pick and draft Griffin? I'm just curious, I find NFL trading a little bit weird compared to NHL and NBA, so I'm just wondering if you have any idea what kind of package it would take?

[EastCoastNiner]

Ya'll gun be scared when the Patriots pick up:

 

Colston

V-Jax

 

Oh, lawd.

 

 

Gronkowski

Hernandez

Welker

Colston

V-Jax

 

 

Who needs defense?

[EastCoastNiner]

If the recent salary cap numbers are correct, the Giants, Jets, and Steelers are in trouble.

 

It would be great if the Steelers couldn't re-sign Mike Wallace.......

[NomarFachix]

Giants are over, but not by much. Cutting Jacobs will save almost $4.5M, which puts us safely under. Not worried about it.

[EastCoastNiner]

Giants are over, but not by much. Cutting Jacobs will save almost $4.5M, which puts us safely under. Not worried about it.

 

There's a few different cap numbers that have been thrown around, so you should just hope that the cap is higher than it's thought to be.

 

I want the Patriots to sign some impact players this off-season. I don't want them going after 32+ year old WR's and crap this year.

 

Go out and get a player like Marcus Colston or Mike Wallace.

 

 

Colston

Welker

Llyod

Gronkowski

Hernandez

 

 

Damn, I can dream................

[NomarFachix]

I heard it was guaranteed to be between $121M and $125M, learning towards the higher numbers (lots of $124M predictions), and you can borrow $2M of future cap. Giants were sitting at a little over $124M to end the season.

[fish7718]

There's a few different cap numbers that have been thrown around, so you should just hope that the cap is higher than it's thought to be.

 

I want the Patriots to sign some impact players this off-season. I don't want them going after 32+ year old WR's and crap this year.

 

Go out and get a player like Marcus Colston or Mike Wallace.

 

 

Colston

Welker

Llyod

Gronkowski

Hernandez

 

 

Damn, I can dream................

I'd expect this from some people but not the great ECN

[Warren2ThaG]

im glad PIT is losing Mike Wallace

[Warren2ThaG]

The Seahawks are one of the main teams going after star defensive end Mario Williams, according to ESPN’s John Clayton.

The No. 1 overall pick in the 2006 NFL Draft and a two-time Pro Bowler, Williams has 53 sacks in his six-year career with the Houston Texans. But the 27-year-old, who will be a free agent on March 13, missed 11 games last season due to a torn pectoral.

 

Nevertheless, Seattle needs a pass-rusher — and Williams has a proven record of sacking and pressuring the opposing quarterback. Clayton told 710 ESPN Seattle radio on Tuesday that Seahawks coach Pete Carroll said he’d consider a high-priced defensive end like Williams, who may now be out of Houston’s price range.

 

“This is from teams in the division,” Clayton told 710 ESPN radio. “They think that Seattle is going to be one of the main teams (pursuing) Mario Williams. They really do.”

--------------------

http://blog.seattlepi.com/football/2012/02/28/report-seahawks-pursuing-defensive-end-mario-williams/

[fish7718]

Top 100 NFL Free Agents (As of 3/3/12)

 

1. Drew Brees

QB | New Orleans Saints

Age: 33 | FA Type: Franchise player (exclusive)

 

One of the greatest free-agent additions of all time, Brees broke the single-season passing yardage record in 2011. He has led New Orleans to four playoff berths in six seasons with the team and captured Super Bowl XLIV MVP honors after helping the Saints to the first NFL title in franchise history. Players like Brees, a difference maker of the highest order, don't hit free agency very often, and with good reason. The exclusive franchise tag precludes other clubs from negotiating with him.

 

2. Mario Williams

OLB-DE | Houston Texans

Age: 27 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Williams, one of the game's top pass rushers, who has shown he can play in 4-3 and 3-4 fronts, is expected to draw major interest if he tests free agency. He possesses a rare combination of size, speed, strength and athleticism and can be downright dominant at times. His durability is something of a concern — he missed most of last season with a pectoral injury and missed multiple games with a sports hernia in 2010 — but there is no doubting his talent.

 

3. Arian Foster

RB | Houston Texans

Age: 26 | FA Type: Restricted

 

Foster has worked his way from undrafted free agent to one of the NFL's elite backs. He is fast, strong and elusive, has very good vision, hits the hole hard and has a knack for getting the most out of every run. Plus, he is excellent in the passing game. Finally, he was outstanding in his first two postseason games, rushing for 285 yards and three TDs. The concern with Foster, as it seemingly is with every running back, is durability, considering the rigors of the position.

 

4. Mike Wallace

WR | Pittsburgh Steelers

Age: 26 | FA Type: Restricted

 

We don't see many restricted free agents tendered at the first-round level drawing offer sheets, but if the Steelers simply tender Wallace instead of giving him the franchise tag — which would require interested teams to surrender two No. 1 picks if Pittsburgh didn't match a contract proposal — we could see that happening. The fleet Wallace can stretch any secondary with his speed and has improved his all-around game, too.

 

5. Ray Rice

RB | Baltimore Ravens

Age: 25 | FA Type: Franchise player

 

Versatile and productive, Rice is a true dual-threat back, with an NFL-best 2,068 total yards in 2011. That made him the second player in NFL history (along with Marshall Faulk) to tally multiple seasons of 1,000 rushing yards and 700 receiving yards. The Ravens haven't been able to work out a long-term contract, so they game him the franchise tag on March 2.

 

6. Carl Nicks

OG | New Orleans Saints

Age: 27 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Nicks was one of the best interior offensive linemen in football a season ago. Considering the Saints gave ORG Jahri Evans a monster contract last offseason, they could be challenged to keep the powerful Nicks, who is likely to be the latest in a growing line of guards to strike it rich in free agency.

 

7. Vincent Jackson

WR | San Diego Chargers

Age: 29 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Will this be the year that Jackson finally gets to test free agency unfettered? The Chargers gave him the franchise tag a season ago, but such a move would be even more costly this year. Jackson's size and speed can present major problems for secondaries, and he fits Norv Turner's offense well. Will the Chargers ink him to a long-term deal, or will he sign elsewhere? He's clearly one of the top offensive players available in free agency.

 

8. Matt Forté

RB | Chicago Bears

Age: 26 | FA Type: Franchise player

 

Forté's 2011 season was cut short by an MCL sprain in early December, but before the injury, he was one of the NFL's top all-around threats at his position. Quick, tough and versatile, Forté is a major threat as a runner and as a pass catcher. The Bears slapped the franchise tag on him on March 2, although it is believed both sides will continue to negotiate a long-term deal to keep him in Chicago.

 

9. DeSean Jackson

WR | Philadelphia Eagles

Age: 25 | FA Type: Franchise player

 

Jackson wasn't as productive in 2011 as he had been in previous seasons, and his contract situation admittedly affected him. Considering that Jackson still hauled in 56 passes for 961 yards and four TDs, the expectations for him are quite clear. His speed is his greatest gift, and he can be an elite playmaker on offense and on special teams. However, he is on the small side, and he could be tough for a coaching staff to manage. Whether he remains in Philadelphia or goes elsewhere, he's a wonderful talent who figures to be highly compensated.

 

10. Dwayne Bowe

WR | Kansas City Chiefs

Age: 27 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Strength and physicality define Bowe's game. Concerns about his consistency have subsided a bit after two strong seasons, though dropped passes still can be an issue for him. The Chiefs could give the franchise tag to Bowe, who has exceeded 1,000 yards receiving three times in the past four seasons and has a total of 31 TD catches the past three campaigns. If he hits the market, he figures to draw considerable interest.

 

11. Cortland Finnegan

CB | Tennessee Titans

Age: 28 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Finnegan is one of the game's better players at a position that has become exceedingly valuable with passing on the increase and the stellar play of quarterbacks one of the defining traits of the 2011 season. He is instinctive, competitive and tough, will not back down from opponents and is capable of shutting down quality receivers when he's at his best. He will be very much in demand if Tennessee allows him to test the market.

 

12. Cliff Avril

DE | Detroit Lions

Age: 26 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Pass-rushing skill like Avril possesses is a valuable talent to have in this pass-happy league. Avril, who notched a career-high 11 sacks in 2011, is quick off the edge and has a good motor. He fits the Lions' hard-charging scheme well. Detroit could use the franchise tag to retain him if it cannot strike a long-term deal with him.

 

13. Wes Welker

WR | New England Patriots

Age: 31 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Welker is the Patriots' top priority in free agency. A quick, tough, productive slot receiver, Welker caught 122 passes in 2011 — 22 more than any other player. No AFC pass catcher was targeted more (173), and he is adept at working open for QB Tom Brady. Welker has made a strong comeback from a 2009 knee injury and continues to play at a high level.

 

14. Calais Campbell

DE | Arizona Cardinals

Age: 26 | FA Type: Franchise player

 

Campbell set career highs in tackles (72), passes defended (10) and sacks (eight) in 2011. The 6-8, 300-pound defensive end works hard and has produced at a high level since entering the starting lineup. The Cardinals are unlikely to let him go.

 

15. Robert Mathis

DE | Indianapolis Colts

Age: 31 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Mathis, who has notched at least 9½ sacks in seven of the last eight NFL seasons, will appeal to clubs looking for a disruptive, high-motor (if undersized) pass rusher. (He also has improved vs. the run.) He has always played in Dwight Freeney's shadow; the question is: How will he fare if he's the rush threat that opponents focus on?

 

16. Stevie Johnson

WR | Buffalo Bills

Age: 26 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

The good: Johnson can hold his own against top-caliber competition, as evidenced by his play against Jets CB Darrelle Revis. Moreover, he has gained more than 1,000 yards receiving in each of the past two seasons. The bad: His endzone antics will not endear him to coaches, and he has dropped multiple passes in key situations.

 

17. Marshawn Lynch

RB | Seattle Seahawks

Age: 26 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Lynch was the tone setter for the Seahawks' offense in 2011, rushing for a career-best 1,204 yards and 12 TDs. He is still relatively young, and his punishing style would endear him to teams looking for a tough focal point for their running game. The Seahawks figure to work to bring him back. The knocks on Lynch? He has encountered some off-field trouble in the past. Also, how much longer can he play at a high level, considering his running style?

 

18. Brandon Carr

CB | Kansas City Chiefs

Age: 26 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

With the Chiefs signing ex-Raiders CB Stanford Routt to a three-year deal on Feb. 21, Carr might price himself out of Kansas City. A productive starter who has defended 65 passes and grabbed eight interceptions in four NFL seasons, Carr is likely to be in demand when free agency begins.

 

19. Ben Grubbs

OG | Baltimore Ravens

Age: 28 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Grubbs, who made the Pro Bowl in 2011, doesn't make many mistakes and is solid both as a run blocker and as a pass protector. The Ravens would like to keep him. "Ben is a player that we'd love to have back in Baltimore," GM Ozzie Newsome said at the NFL Scouting Combine.

 

20. Matt Flynn

QB | Green Bay Packers

Age: 27 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Flynn's résumé is short — two regular-season starts — but his potential is considerable, and he plays the most valuable position on the field. There's reason to believe he can be a successful full-time player. He is mobile and has improved his arm strength. Moreover, he had a valuable apprenticeship behind Aaron Rodgers. The question is: Can Flynn be elite? The team that acquires him will place high expectations on him.

 

21. Brent Grimes

CB | Atlanta Falcons

Age: 29 | FA Type: Franchise player

 

Grimes, who has very good ball skills, has emerged as one of the NFC's better cornerbacks the past three seasons. Despite the high cost, the Falcons decided to use the franchise tag with the goal of working out a long-term deal for the 2010 Pro Bowler.

 

22. John Abraham

DE | Atlanta Falcons

Age: 34 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

With 112 career sacks, including 9½ in 2011, Abraham is one of the premier pass rushers of his time. However, his age and the wear and tear sustained over a long career are issues that have to be weighed. The Falcons would like to re-sign him, but at their price, and Abraham likely will test the market.

 

23. Marques Colston

WR | New Orleans Saints

Age: 29 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Colston is a tall, strong, sure-handed possession target who has a notable injury history with microfracture surgeries on each knee the past three years. He caught 80-of-107 passes thrown to him a season ago, an impressive statistic when you consider that his average reception was 11.1 yards downfield. Look for him to draw interest if he's unsigned at the beginning of the league year.

 

24. Michael Griffin

S | Tennessee Titans

Age: 27 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Griffin has special physical traits for the safety position. He has very good range and solid ball skills, too, as evidenced by his 17 career interceptions. However, his play has left something to be desired at times. He seems to get caught in-between on some plays. He draws this ranking on production, but he has the potential to do even more.

 

25. Michael Bush

RB | Oakland Raiders

Age: 28 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

A physical inside runner, Bush has been a capable fill-in for, and complement to, Darren McFadden in Oakland. However, Bush lacks breakaway speed. With McFadden's durability a concern, re-signing Bush would make sense for Oakland. But will Bush be offered a starting job elsewhere? With the franchise tag potentially thinning the UFA RB ranks, Bush could do quite well in free agency.

 

26. Lardarius Webb

CB | Baltimore Ravens

Age: 26 | FA Type: restricted

 

Webb is one of the better restricted free agents available. Tough, quick and instinctive, Webb is capable of baiting quarterbacks into mistakes. He also brings value as a return specialist. It won't be surprising if the Ravens sign him to a multiyear deal.

 

27. Fred Davis

TE | Washington Redskins

Age: 26 | FA Type: Franchise player

 

Davis received the franchise tag on March 2. He set career highs in catches (59) and yards (796), and his yards-per-catch average (13.5) highlights his ability to challenge defenses down the field. However, he was suspended for the final four games of the 2011 season after violating the NFL's substance-abuse policy.

 

28. Paul Soliai

NT | Miami Dolphins

Age: 28 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

The Dolphins are moving to a 4-3 scheme, which could open the door for Soliai, who received the franchise tag from Miami in 2011, to go elsewhere. This run-stuffing interior lineman fits best in a 3-4 scheme.

 

29. Carlos Rogers

CB | San Francisco 49ers

Age: 31 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Rogers starred in his first season in San Francisco, intercepting a career-best six passes for one of the NFL's top defenses. Considering his skill and how well he fit in the secondary as sort of an extra coach on the field, look for San Francisco to work to bring him back.

 

30. Reggie Wayne

WR | Indianapolis Colts

Age: 33 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Wayne has lost a step, but he still can be an effective starter because of his route running, excellent hands, durability and run-after-catch ability. There's a good chance he could move on from the Colts, a club in transition.

 

31. Sione Pouha

NT | New York Jets

Age: 33 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

The 6-3, 325-pound Pouha comes off his best season. Teams struggled to run up the middle on the Jets in 2011, gaining 2.93 yards per carry on such rushes, according to NFL statistics. While he is on the wrong side of 30, he has been a starter for only three seasons.

 

32 Dashon Goldson

S | San Francisco 49ers

Age: 27 | FA Type: Franchise player

 

In addition to being a physical presence on the back end of the Niners' secondary, Goldson intercepted a career-high six passes in a breakout season. The 49ers are expected to try to re-sign him, and with good reason — he's one of the top playmakers at his position.

 

33. LaRon Landry

S | Washington Redskins

Age: 27 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Landry's durability is a major question mark. An Achilles injury suffered in 2010 also bothered him in 2011, and he has played in only 17-of-32 games the past two seasons. When healthy, Landry can be a force in the back of the secondary.

 

34. Alex Smith

QB | San Francisco 49ers

Age: 28 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Smith took a big step forward in 2011, playing efficiently and taking care of the ball (five interceptions). The 2005 No. 1 overall pick is still relatively young, and his persistence really paid off a season ago. His stock definitely has risen.

 

35. Brandon Lloyd

WR | St. Louis Rams

Age: 31 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Lloyd's last two seasons have been his best. He has proven capable of being a go-to target, but he might be best as a dynamic No. 2 receiver. The athletic Lloyd is capable of the highlight-reel catch, but he can struggle to get separation.

 

36. Kyle Orton

QB | Kansas City Chiefs

Age: 29 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Orton is a starter-caliber player at a valuable position. He is not an elite difference maker — he lacks mobility and isn't an especially accurate passer — but he can be a winner in the right system with good talent surrounding him.

 

37. Pierre Garcon

WR | Indianapolis Colts

Age: 26 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

With good size and speed, Garcon has the tools to be a standout, but he must be more consistent — with cutting down on his drops and running better routes two areas of note — to be ranked among the game's elite at his position. However, he's coming off his best season (70 catches, 947 yards, six TDs).

 

38. Mario Manningham

WR | New York Giants

Age: 26 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

One of the stars of the Giants' Super Bowl XLVI victory, Manningham boasts starting talent. However, the Giants already have two standout receivers in Victor Cruz and Hakeem Nicks. The worry about Manningham isn't his ability but his consistency, which has been lacking at times.

 

39. London Fletcher

MLB | Washington Redskins

Age: 37 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Fletcher continues to play at a high level, and the Redskins are likely to re-sign him. He has had a remarkably productive career. Want to know what consistency looks like in numerical form? Pull up Fletcher's career statistics and look at his games started and tackles recorded each season. Every week, he shows up, and every season, he's a good bet for triple-digit tackles.

 

40. Anthony Spencer

OLB | Dallas Cowboys

Age: 28 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Spencer is stout vs. the run and has shown moderate pass-rush ability — he has notched better than 60 tackles and at least five sacks in all three of his seasons as a starter. Will he be back in Dallas, or could he draw interest from other 3-4 clubs?

 

41. Tyvon Branch

S | Oakland Raiders

Age: 25 | FA Type: Franchise player

 

Branch is the Raiders' top priority among their free agents, and he was informed by the team he will be franchised. He has recorded more than 100 tackles in each of the past three seasons, and he is also solid vs. the pass.

 

42. Curtis Lofton

MLB | Atlanta Falcons

Age: 26 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

The Falcons are expected to work to retain Lofton, their starting middle linebacker. The franchise tag is an option, but a multiyear deal is more likely. He recorded a career-best 147 tackles in 2011.

 

43. Laurent Robinson

WR | Dallas Cowboys

Age: 27 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Robinson's fifth NFL season (and first with Dallas) was far and away his best. Robinson, signed just before the season after being released by San Diego, set career highs in catches (54), yards (858) and TDs (11). Robinson's playmaking ability and dependability — he caught two-thirds of the passes thrown his way — are two of his selling points as he enters free agency.

 

44. Chris Myers

C | Houston Texans

Age: 30 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Myers has become one of the game's better players at his position. Undersized but athletic, he's one of the leaders of the Texans' line. He's a very good fit for Houston's zone-blocking scheme.

 

45. Jason Jones

DT | Tennessee Titans

Age: 26 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Jones played defensive end for Tennessee in 2011, but he might be best inside, where his strength and quickness can make him a tough matchup for interior linemen. He has shown significant potential at times and might have upside to develop further.

 

46. Robert Meachem

WR | New Orleans Saints

Age: 27 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

The Saints wouldn't mind re-signing Meachem, their 2007 first-round pick. The question is: What sort of offers will the speedy former Tennessee star receive in free agency? If another team wants to pay him like a go-to receiver, Meachem could be on the move.

 

47. Kendall Langford

DE | Miami Dolphins

Age: 26 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Solid against the run, the 6-6, 295-pound Langford wasn't as productive in 2011 as he had been in past seasons, but he certainly could hold appeal to clubs employing 3-4 fronts. He might be on the underrated side.

 

48. Scott Wells

C | Green Bay Packers

Age: 31 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

A key part of the Packers' offensive line, Wells has a good rapport with QB Aaron Rodgers and ranks as one of the top interior linemen available. The question is: Will Packers GM Ted Thompson give a multiyear deal to a lineman on the wrong side of 30? Considering Wells' value to the line, there are some who believe that would be a good move.

 

49. Eric Wright

CB | Detroit Lions

Age: 27 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Consistency is the issue with Wright. He will be dependable for stretches but can struggle mightily at times, such as he did in the regular-season loss at New Orleans in December. Overall, though, he played well in his first season in Detroit.

 

50. Red Bryant

DE | Seattle Seahawks

Age: 28 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

A giant defensive end, Bryant is an excellent run stuffer. He is also a difference maker on special teams; note his two blocked field goals at Cleveland in a 6-3 Seattle loss last season. Though he is not much of a pass rusher, he fits Seattle's scheme very well.

 

51. Aaron Ross

CB | New York Giants

Age: 29 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Ross, who has contributed to two Super Bowl-winning Giants teams, could cash in as an Unrestricted free agent. With the CB position so highly valued, do not be surprised if he does very well for himself and signs elsewhere. However, he's more of a complementary player than a shutdown corner.

 

52. Stephen Tulloch

MLB | Detroit Lions

Age: 27 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

The quick, instinctive but undersized Tulloch notched 111 tackles in his first season with Detroit in 2011. He's a strong fit it the Lions' 4-3 scheme, and it won't be a surprise if they look to re-sign him.

 

53. Antonio Garay

NT | San Diego Chargers

Age: 32 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Garay has come into his own the past two seasons, starting 28 games for San Diego. The run-stuffing nose tackle recorded a career-best 57 tackles last season. He plays a valuable position well.

 

54. Demetrius Bell

OLT | Buffalo Bills

Age: 28 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

It is possible that Bell, who didn't play football until college and has only 31 NFL games to his credit, still could be developing. Though he played in only seven games a season ago because of injuries, he showed marked improvement when he was in the lineup.

 

55. Jeremy Mincey

DE | Jacksonville Jaguars

Age: 28 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Mincey notched a career-best eight sacks and four forced fumbles in 2011. A late developer, Mincey knows his effort is one of his defining attributes. He does come with some durability concerns, however.

 

56. Peyton Hillis

RB | Cleveland Browns

Age: 26 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Hillis struggled in 2011. A thigh injury cost him five games, and his unhappiness with his contract was a distraction. However, at season's end, he started to play well. Whether that was enough to convince the Browns to try to re-sign him remains to be seen. At his best, he's a power back who is strong enough to run between the tackles and athletic enough to help in the passing game.

 

57. Richard Marshall

CB | Arizona Cardinals

Age: 27 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Marshall's experience (55 career starts) and versatility (he can play cornerback or safety) are assets. Moreover, he is still relatively young. The Cardinals would like to re-sign him, but he figures to draw interest from other clubs.

 

58. Jared Gaither

OLT | San Diego Chargers

Age: 26 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Gaither impressed in a late-season stint with the Chargers, who want to re-sign him. He has rare size for the position (6-9, 340 pounds) and has, at times, shown great promise at tackle. However, he missed the entire 2010 season with a back injury, and both Baltimore and Kansas City have given up on him. If he becomes more consistent and can stay healthy, he could be a productive starter for years to come.

 

59. David Hawthorne

MLB | Seattle Seahawks

Age: 27 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Hawthorne has led the Seahawks in tackles in each of the past three seasons. The question is: Will Seattle re-sign him or veteran LB Leroy Hill? There are some questions about Hawthorne's durability.

 

60. Tracy Porter

CB | New Orleans Saints

Age: 26 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Porter, one of the stars of the Saints' Super Bowl XLIV win, has good ball skills and 39 career starts to his credit — and young, talented cornerbacks like him can do quite well in free agency. However, he has never played in all 16 regular-season games.

 

61. John Carlson

TE | Seattle Seahawks

Age: 28 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Carlson missed the 2011 season with a shoulder injury, but he has been productive when healthy. He could be a nice value signing if he is able to return to his pre-injury form.

 

62. Reggie Nelson

FS | Cincinnati Bengals

Age: 28 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Nelson has jump-started his career in Cincinnati. The former Jaguars No. 1 pick runs well, but he has occasionally struggled with consistency. Were he to depart, the Bengals would have a clear need in the secondary.

 

63. Cedric Benson

RB | Cincinnati Bengals

Age: 29 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Teams have a pretty good idea of what they are going to get from Benson. He's a rugged power back who wants a heavy workload, and he can handle it. However, he lacks long speed, turns 30 years old in December and had ball-security issues late last season (five fumbles combined in Weeks 15-16). It will be interesting to see where he lands and what sort of role he earns.

 

64. BenJarvus Green-Ellis

RB | New England Patriots

Age: 27 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Green-Ellis' calling card? His dependability. He has never fumbled, and he has been a productive member of one of the NFL's top offenses the past two seasons. He possesses good vision and balance and fits the Patriots' scheme well.

 

65. Nick Hardwick

C | San Diego Chargers

Age: 30 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Hardwick, who has started all 103 games in which he has played over eight seasons in San Diego, reportedly wants to return to the team. According to STATS LLC, Hardwick didn't allow a single sack in 2011 and was penalized only once. Also, he has a good rapport with QB Philip Rivers.

 

66. Evan Mathis

OG | Philadelphia Eagles

Age: 30 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Mathis played well in his first season in Philadelphia, and there's some belief that he's an underrated player. He equaled his career high with 15 starts in 2011 and didn't allow a sack.

 

67. Terrell Thomas

CB | New York Giants

Age: 27 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Thomas missed the 2011 season with a torn ACL suffered in August. It will be interesting to see how the injury affects his value. Stacking him and teammate Aaron Ross on this list was challenging: There is some sentiment that Thomas — he had 31 passes defensed and 10 interceptions in 2009-10 — is the better player, but he is coming off a serious injury, which affected his standing in these rankings.

 

68. Mark Anderson

DE | New England Patriots

Age: 29 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

The pass-rush specialist had 10 sacks in the regular season and added 2½ more in the playoffs, with 1½ coming in Super Bowl XLVI. While Anderson isn't an every-down player, he has shown he can get after opposing QBs, which gives him value in a pass-happy league.

 

69. Aubrayo Franklin

NT | New Orleans Saints

Age: 32 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

The Saints, who have their work cut out for them in free agency, could bring back Franklin, who was decent in his first season in New Orleans, at the right price. He could appeal to clubs looking for a 3-4 nose tackle.

 

70. Mike Brisiel

OG | Houston Texans

Age: 29 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Brisiel is a tough, hardworking interior lineman whose hard-nosed mentality makes him a favorite of the Texans' coaches. The Texans ran well off the right side last season, and he allowed only one sack. However, Brisiel was penalized eight times in 13 games.

 

71. Mike Tolbert

RB | San Diego Chargers

Age: 26 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

The 5-9, 243-pound Tolbert brings value as a tough red-zone back, as a receiver out of the backfield and as a strong special-teams performer. He likely fits best as part of a rotation. His versatility is an asset.

 

72. Harry Douglas

WR | Atlanta Falcons

Age: 27 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Douglas, the Falcons' No. 3 receiver, has some big-play ability, with 10 of his 39 catches in 2011 going for 20 yards or more. He would appeal to clubs looking for a quick slot receiver.

 

73. Aaron Maybin

DE-OLB | New York Jets

Age: 24 | FA Type: Restricted

 

As the Bills' 2010 first-round pick, Maybin lasted two dismal seasons in Buffalo before landing with the Jets. Though he was just a part-time player, Maybin flourished in Rex Ryan's system and notched six sacks and four forced fumbles. Considering his youth and pass-rush ability, it will be interesting to see how Maybin's career progresses.

 

74. Israel Idonije

DE | Chicago Bears

Age: 31 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Idonije is a capable starter whose last two seasons — playing opposite Julius Peppers — have been his best. The Bears are not likely to break the bank to re-sign him, but it will not be a surprise if he returns. He notched a career-high 52 tackles in 2011 and has 13 sacks the past two seasons, including five last season.

 

75. E.J. Henderson

MLB | Minnesota Vikings

Age: 32 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

After a very good nine-year career with the Vikings, Henderson could move on from this rebuilding club in the offseason. Teams looking for a tough, experienced 4-3 middle linebacker could be interested in him.

 

76. Jason Campbell

QB | Oakland Raiders

Age: 30 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

With the Raiders making a major commitment to Carson Palmer, Campbell could sign elsewhere. He was having a solid season before suffering a broken collaRBone in October, leading then-head coach Hue Jackson to trade for Palmer. Campbell has thrown more touchdown passes than interceptions in all six NFL seasons in which he has played.

 

77. Brodrick Bunkley

DT | Denver Broncos

Age: 28 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

With 65 career starts, the 6-2, 306-pound Bunkley, a 2006 first-round pick by the Eagles, could appeal to clubs that are looking for help up the middle. A serviceable starter, Bunkley notched 43 tackles for Denver a season ago.

 

78. Jarret Johnson

OLB | Baltimore Ravens

Age: 31 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Johnson may be appealing to clubs that are looking for a tough, run-stuffing outside linebacker. He does not provide much of a pass rush, and he would fit best with a club where he could come off the field in obvious passing situations.

 

79. Thomas Decoud

S | Atlanta Falcons

Age: 27 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

The Falcons would like to bring back DeCoud, a three-year starter, at the right price. He set career highs in tackles (86) and interceptions (four) in 2011.

 

80. Vince Young

QB | Philadelphia Eagles

Age: 29 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Young had some good moments in his first season with the Eagles, most notably in Philadelphia's Week 11 win over the Giants. However, he threw nine interceptions in 114 attempts. His mobility is his greatest asset, but his accuracy remains too scattershot.

 

81. Andre Carter

DE | New England Patriots

Age: 33 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Carter proved he still can get after the quarterback by notching 10 sacks in 14 games in 2011 — his third double-digit sack season in the past five campaigns. The primary questions with Carter are age and health; a leg injury that led to quadriceps surgery ended his '11 campaign in December.

 

82. Chad Henne

QB | Miami Dolphins

Age: 27 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

A shoulder injury ended Henne's 2011 season after four games. The knocks on him are his accuracy and ability to come through in clutch situations. However, he did play well in two of his three full games a season ago, and he could have the upside to develop further. He likely will get a fresh start elsewhere.

 

83. Visanthe Shiancoe

TE | Minnesota Vikings

Age: 32 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Shiancoe is getting up in age, and it would not be surprising if the Vikings allowed him to depart. Minnesota drafted TE Kyle Rudolph in Round Two in the 2011 NFL draft, and he's poised to become the team's top target at the position.

 

84. Steve Weatherford

P | New York Giants

Age: 29 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Weatherford's 2011 season was his best, continuing a pattern of recent improvement. And he was excellent when the Giants needed him most. Three of his four punts in Super Bowl XLVI were downed inside the New England 10. Also, he posted a 40.6-yard net average on 12 punts in difficult conditions in the NFC title game at Candlestick Park.

 

85. Michael Bennett

DE | Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Age: 26 | FA Type: Restricted

 

The 6-4, 274-pound Bennett started 10 games a season ago, notching 39 tackles and four sacks, and he was mentioned as a restricted free agent who merited inclusion on this list — no small feat, considering the depth of this free-agent class.

 

86. Jeremy Zuttah

OG | Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Age: 26 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Zuttah has been a reliable starter in Tampa Bay, starting 44-of-58 games since entering the NFL. He also can play center. The Buccaneers are said to want to re-sign him.

 

87. Eddie Royal

WR | Denver Broncos

Age: 26 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Royal caught 91 passes as a rookie in 2008, but he has made just 115 catches in three seasons since. Quick but slight, Royal adds value as a returner, too. He developed a good rapport with QB Tim Tebow in 2011.

 

88. Ted Ginn Jr.

WR | San Francisco 49ers

Age: 27 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Ginn has elite speed and can be a difference maker as a returner, as he showed when he returned a kickoff and a punt for scores vs. Seattle in the 2011 season opener. He also can be a vertical threat on offense.

 

89. Matt Prater

PK | Denver Broncos

Age: 28 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Prater's leg strength is enhanced when playing in Denver's thin mountain air. His range can extend to 60 yards on field goals, and more than two-thirds of his kickoffs were touchbacks in 2011. What's more, he connected on all three of his FG attempts in overtime as Denver won the AFC West.

 

90. Mat McBriar

P | Dallas Cowboys

Age: 33 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

A two-time Pro Bowler, McBriar had left knee surgery in February to remove a cyst, but he reportedly told ESPN Radio in Dallas that he expects to be ready for the season. When healthy, he's one of the game's better punters.

 

91. Jay Feely

PK | Arizona Cardinals

Age: 36 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Feely has connected on 82 percent of his field-goal attempts in his career, and last season was the first time he had made less than 83 percent of his FG attempts since 2004. Consistent and confident, he's a proven performer at a pressure-packed position.

 

92. Jeremy Shockey

TE | Carolina Panthers

Age: 32 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Though not the dynamic playmaker that he was earlier in his career, Shockey is still a solid contributor who could help a club that's looking to improve its TE corps.

 

93. Josh Scobee

PK | Jacksonville Jaguars

Age: 30 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Scobee comes off his finest season, having connected on 23-of-25 field-goal attempts, with no misses inside 40 yards. He also has a strong leg on kickoffs, with 39 of his 62 kicks going for touchbacks in 2011.

 

94. Phil Dawson

PK | Cleveland Browns

Age: 37 | FA Type: Franchise player

 

Dawson's reliability is his greatest asset. He connected on 24-of-29 field-goal attempts a season ago (82.8 percent). Overall, he has hit 83.1 percent of his FG attempts throughout his 13-year career, all of which has been spent in Cleveland. His ability to kick well in cold weather is an asset.

 

95. Martellus Bennett

TE | Dallas Cowboys

Age: 25 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Dallas' No. 2 tight end has playmaking ability. Will he earn a bigger role with another club? Finding consistency is a key for him.

 

96. Brian Hoyer

QB | New England Patriots

Age: 26 | FA Type: Restricted

 

Hoyer has shown promise in three seasons in New England, with the bulk of his opportunities coming in the preseason and in relief of QB Tom Brady in a handful of regular-season games. New England is expected to give the backup quarterback a high tender offer. There are some league evaluators who are not sold on him, however.

 

97. Michael Robinson

FB | Seattle Seahawks

Age: 29 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

The one-time collegiate quarterback earned Pro Bowl honors as a blocker in 2011. He also is an exceptional special-teams player.

 

98. Dimitri Patterson

CB | Cleveland Browns

Age: 29 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Patterson rebounded in 2011, playing well as the Browns' third cornerback after having struggled in a starting role for Philadelphia. It will be interesting to see if he gets another shot at a first-team role.

 

99. Early Doucet

WR | Arizona Cardinals

Age: 26 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Doucet caught a career-best 54 passes for 689 yards and five TDs a season ago. He could be a sleeper of sorts.

 

100. Bengals OLB Manny Lawson

OLB | Cincinnati Bengals

Age: 28 | FA Type: Unrestricted

 

Lawson, who has starting experience in 3-4 and 4-3 fronts, notched 51 tackles and 1½ sacks for Cincinnati a season ago. He's shown some pass-rush ability in the past, most notably in 2009 with San Francisco, when he recorded 6½ sacks.

Courtesy of Yahoo! Sports and Pro Football Weekly

 

 

Free Agency starts in about a week, which players do you want your team to target?

Edited March 5, 2012 by fish7718

[EastCoastNiner]

Ya'll scurred that the latest rumors have V-Jax going to the Patriots?

 

Welker

V-Jax

Gronk

Hernandez

 

Every other team should do themselves a favor and not show up.

[NomarFachix]

Mario Manningham to the 49ers.. blech. Lloyd to the Patriots, great fit.

[fish7718]

Mario Manningham to the 49ers.. blech. Lloyd to the Patriots, great fit.

Wouldn't be surprised if Lloyd was top 5 statwise this year, when he is motivated he is one of the best, and Brady gets the most out of anyone not named ochocinco

[SRT Spidey]

Lloyd AND Gonzalez to the Pats. Wow this offense is LOADED now..two great TE's along with Welker and now you throw these guys in the mix..gonna be scary.. now just if Belichick could do something with this defense :/

[NomarFachix]

Gonzalez to the Pats. Wow this offense is LOADED now

lol

[DunkinDerozan]

Mario Manningham to the 49ers.. blech. Lloyd to the Patriots, great fit.

 

blech is right. Was he not watching when Alex Smith sucked against us in the NFC championship? I guess i'd rather that than an NFC East Rival (Steve Smith)

[Make It Naaaashty]

49ers are looking sexyyy. All depends on how Alex Smith plays.