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January 17, 2015 at 8:01 pm #19074AgamemnonParticipant
Rams Free Agency: Projecting Contract Offers for St. Louis
By Steven Gerwel , Featured Columnist
Jan 18, 2015The St. Louis Rams, and the entire NFL for that matter, will be scrambling to re-sign their in-house free agents before the market opens on March 10—about one month after the Super Bowl.
Retaining local free agents is a vital part of maintaining the team’s core. Rams chief operating officer Kevin Demoff has mentioned in the past that the most important free agents are not the ones from other teams but rather the ones in his own building.
That doesn’t mean the Rams have to cave in and re-sign every familiar face; it just means that continuity and chemistry are important to a football team.
Over the next several weeks, Jeff Fisher and general manager Les Snead will study the list of St. Louis free agents and determine who’s worth hanging on to. It’s a difficult task, but it’s also vital for the future of the team.
This article will highlight several in-house unrestricted free agents who should be retained and make a prediction on the contract offer based on the current market.
WR Kenny Britt
Kenny Britt has always possessed the talent of a true No. 1 receiver, but he’s been incapable of putting it all together and playing with consistency.
Which in-house free agent is the most vital?
Kenny Britt Joe Barksdale Lance Kendricks Other Submit Vote vote to see resultsBritt was drafted by Fisher with the Tennessee Titans’ first-round pick in 2009. He immediately contributed with 701 yards and three scores as a rookie. In 2010, he posted career-high numbers with 775 yards and nine touchdowns.
It appeared Britt was going to break out in 2011. He posted more than 130 yards in each of his first two games, including three touchdown catches. In Week 3, his breakout campaign came to a halt with a season-ending knee injury.
A suspension for multiple off-field incidents hurt his 2012 season. In 2013, he was benched for uninspiring play and ended the year with just 96 yards.
Fisher, being the man who drafted Britt, was familiar with Britt’s abilities as a player and felt he could contribute to St. Louis’ offense. Despite Britt’s knee injury and off-the-field troubles, the Rams signed Britt to a one-year contract worth a modest $1.4 million.
Not only did Britt produce on the field with three touchdowns and 748 yards (his highest yards total since 2010), but he served as a veteran leader for St. Louis’ young receivers.
According the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Rams wide receiver coach Ray Sherman is quite pleased with Britt’s presence in the locker room.
“And I tell you what,” said Sherman. “(Britt) has been a joy to have. He’s a smart kid. He’s very conscientious. He wants to do the right thing. He studies. He prepares. And he’s like that when he’s in the classroom, and on the field. I mean I love what he brings to the table.”
For a team that has struggled to find a veteran presence at the receiver position since the departure of Torry Holt in 2009, how can the Rams possibly justify letting Britt walk?
For one, Britt is only 26 years old and is still developing as a player. There’s a realistic chance that he can break out and become the 1,000-yard receiver that the team’s been searching for.
Also, there’s not a good contingency plan in place. If Britt walks, there’s no guarantee the injured Brian Quick will bounce back and play at 100 percent. And while Stedman Bailey certainly has the potential to step up and become the No. 1 guy, it’s still risky to make that assumption.
There’s no way around it. Unless the Rams are confident they can snag Alabama’s Amari Cooper or Oklahoma’s Dorial Green-Beckham in the upcoming draft, they have to re-sign Britt.
The good news is that Britt is not a 1,000-yard guy, at least not yet, and his price tag will reflect that. He should land somewhere between the Riley Cooper and Wes Welker range—about $5 million per year on average.
If the Rams can ink him to a similar contract, he’ll remain with the team for the next several years.
Contract Prediction: Three Years, $15 Million
Jeff Haynes/Associated Press
T Joe Barksdale
The Rams fielded one of the worst offensive lines in football this past year, and upgrades are inevitable this offseason.
One of the biggest question marks is right tackle Joe Barksdale, who apparently took a step backward after a very promising 2013 season.
There’s no question that Barksdale is at least partially responsible for his own decline, but he didn’t have much help. Veteran center Scott Wells and right guard Davin Joseph were total liabilities. Barksdale had almost zero help from the two spots to his left, and it showed.
Wells and Joseph will likely be gone in 2015, and the Rams will undoubtedly pursue guards and centers in free agency and the draft.
The Rams do not have the resources to replace three starters on the offensive line in a single offseason, so it’s both necessary and wise to give Barksdale another shot.
If Barksdale continues to struggle, he’ll be replaced a year from now. However, since he’s still only 26 years old, there’s a good chance he can rebound and get back to his former self.
The Rams will re-sign Barksdale this offseason. Thanks to his decline in play, the contract should be modest—somewhere between Tyson Clabo ($1.2 million on average) and Doug Free ($3.5 million).
Barksdale’s contract will likely contain lots of non-guaranteed money and incentives.
Contract Prediction: Three Years, $9.1 Million
Billy Hurst/Associated Press
TE Lance Kendricks
Tight end Lance Kendricks has not been St. Louis’ flashiest offensive weapon, but the former second-round draft pick has contributed in valuable and subtle ways.
In 2012, Kendricks established himself as a decent receiver with four touchdowns and 519 yards, which was surprisingly the highest single-season yards total by a tight end in St. Louis’ history (an accomplishment that was outdone by Jared Cook’s 671-yard campaign the following year).
Since the arrival of Cook, Kendricks has taken on the responsibilities of a wild card. He’s not a consistent part of St. Louis’ aerial game plan, but he’s a valuable run-blocker in his new fullback-tight end hybrid role.
He hasn’t been dismissed completely from the passing game. He contributed a career-high five touchdowns this past season and continues to be a valuable red-zone weapon, but his route running has certainly been limited.
The decision will have a lot to do with three-year veteran Cory Harkey. Harkey has been a solid contributor as the No. 3 tight end and is begging for a larger role. He’s a valuable receiver, but Kendricks likely has the edge as a run-blocker.
Undrafted rookies Alex Bayer and Justice Cunningham both made the final roster for St. Louis. If Harkey moves into the No. 2 role, either player is capable of replacing Harkey as the new No. 3 tight end.
The Rams certainly have the depth in place to move on from Kendricks if necessary, but it will simply depend on how much confidence Fisher has in Harkey.
If St. Louis retains Kendricks, his deal will likely be similar to Brandon Myers or Jacob Tamme—about $2.3 million per year.
Contract Prediction: Two Years, $4.6 Million
January 17, 2015 at 8:01 pm #18018sdramParticipantIt’s merely the first week of the offseason process. Franchise tags have yet to be discussed. There’s still time for clubs to lock up young stars to long-term contracts. Many of the top free agents will never get the opportunity to test their value on the open market. We will compile a top 100 list and provide a breakdown of each position in early March.
Our list places the highest value on ascendant players with little or no reason to expect a dropoff in production over the next few years.
To view the upcoming free agents by team, position and restricted free agents, click the tabs above.
Without further ado, here are Around The NFL’s top 25 NFL free agents for 2015:
1. Ndamukong Suh, Detroit Lions defensive tackle
2. Justin Houston, Kansas City Chiefs pass rusher
3. Dez Bryant, Dallas Cowboys wide receiver
4. Demaryius Thomas, Denver Broncos wide receiver
5. Jason Pierre-Paul, New York Giants defensive end
6. Julius Thomas, Denver Broncos tight end
7. Mike Iupati, San Francisco 49ers guard
8. Randall Cobb, Green Bay Packers wide receiver
9. Devin McCourty, New England Patriots safety
10. DeMarco Murray, Dallas Cowboys running back
11. Jerry Hughes, Buffalo Bills pass rusher
12. Jason Worilds, Pittsburgh Steelers pass rusher
13. Jared Odrick, Miami Dolphins defensive tackle
14. Pernell McPhee, Baltimore Ravens pass rusher
15. Terrance Knighton, Denver Broncos defensive tackle
16. Jeremy Maclin, Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver
17. Brandon Graham, Philadelphia Eagles pass rusher
18. Torrey Smith, Baltimore Ravens wide receiver
19. Greg Hardy, Carolina Panthers pass rusher*
20. Byron Maxwell, Seattle Seahawks cornerback
21. C.J. Spiller, Buffalo Bills running back
22. Nick Fairley, Detroit Lions defensive tackle
23. Brandon Flowers, San Diego Chargers cornerback
24. Brian Orakpo, Washington Redskins pass rusher
25. Jordan Cameron, Cleveland Browns tight end* Hardy currently is on the Commissioner’s Exempt List
January 17, 2015 at 8:01 pm #16767wvParticipantPFF’s free agent tracker
Guards:
https://www.profootballfocus.com/blog/2014/12/25/2015-free-agents-guards/
Seven guards had overall positive ratings.
Tops were Franklin of Denver and Lupati of SF.Centers:
https://www.profootballfocus.com/blog/2014/12/25/free-agents-2015-centers/
Four Centers have positive season ratings:Hudson, 26, of KC,
Shipley, 29, of Indy,
De le Puente, 30 of Chi,
Montgomery, 32, of DenverJanuary 17, 2015 at 8:04 pm #16769znModeratorFour Centers have positive season ratings:
Hudson, 26, of KC,
Shipley, 29, of Indy,
De le Puente, 30 of Chi,
Montgomery, 32, of DenverIMHO: any one of those 4 would be fine.
January 17, 2015 at 8:45 pm #16771wvParticipantIMHO: any one of those 4 would be fine.
Yeah, but you like Old, Injured players
so…there’s that.w
vJanuary 17, 2015 at 8:58 pm #16772znModeratorYeah, but you like Old, Injured players
so…there’s that.Only when they can’t play.
January 18, 2015 at 10:35 am #16796InvaderRamModeratorthe only things i can think of so far are cut long and wells. focus on re-signing britt. maybe sign a fa olineman.
January 18, 2015 at 1:29 pm #16800ZooeyModeratorI take it for granted that Long is gone, but I don’t expect a lot of FA action with the Rams. I wouldn’t be surprised if they picked up a G or C, but I think I would be surprised if they got both. I think Bradford and Langford are back. I dunno on Wells. Clearly, the Rams don’t think they have anybody as good as a bashed up and mangled Scott Wells, or Wells would have sat last year. So unless they sign a FA there, Wells is back.
January 18, 2015 at 1:49 pm #16803wvParticipantI take it for granted that Long is gone, but I don’t expect a lot of FA action with the Rams. I wouldn’t be surprised if they picked up a G or C, but I think I would be surprised if they got both. I think Bradford and Langford are back. I dunno on Wells. Clearly, the Rams don’t think they have anybody as good as a bashed up and mangled Scott Wells, or Wells would have sat last year. So unless they sign a FA there, Wells is back.
If they bring Wells back i will
seriously question their intelligence.w
vJanuary 18, 2015 at 1:55 pm #16805ZooeyModeratorIf they bring Wells back i will
seriously question their intelligence.w
vIf they bring Wells back, they should cut Jones. Because if Jones can’t perform better than Wells….
The only reason I remain uncertain on Wells (and I’d like him gone) is that the Rams may think he’s likely to be healthier next year, and worth keeping. Clearly if the decision is based on his performance, there’s got to be a better option. Wagoner mentioned Hudson, and he’s 26. That’s the kind of guy I’d like. Someone who can be the C for 8 – 10 years.
January 18, 2015 at 1:57 pm #16806znModeratorthe Rams don’t think they have anybody as good as a bashed up and mangled Scott Wells, or Wells would have sat last year. So unless they sign a FA there, Wells is back.
All 4 centers were hurt.
Wells: got a dangerous illness over the summer, lost weight because of it, took a month off over the summer because of the lost weight, and then (like Long and Saffold) got hurt in the Chiefs game.
Jones: needed to gain weight and strength after 2013, did, then needed back surgery, then lost weight and strength because he couldn’t lift after the surgery. According to him, he needs an off-season to get up to specs physically.
Barnes: all I know is he was listed with a shoulder injury
Rhaney: on IR
So the fact they had to stick with a battered Wells really doesn’t say anything about the other guys. This is one of those cases where injuries dictated everything (I mean…how many teams get FOUR CENTERS INJURED IN ONE SEASON (!!!))
We have no idea what they think of the other 3 (after Wells). We can’t assume anything about it, let alone assume they think bad things.
Having said that, they should and probably will acquire a center this year. If the new guy comes through AND the other 3 do too, then, yay…gravy.
..
February 2, 2015 at 9:26 pm #17865znModeratorFree Agency Update
2015 NFL Free AgentsEvan Silva
http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/nfl/51589/309/2015-nfl-free-agents
With access to NFL Players Association data, Rotoworld can generate the most accurate free agent list on the internet. The free agents below are ranked loosely in order of how we project them to be valued on the open market.
Keep in mind that franchise tags and re-signings will inevitably deplete the market. Things pick up quickly in the days preceding the March 7 negotiating period, and the market will largely evaporate one week after the official start of free agency on March 10.
Quarterbacks
1. Mark Sanchez
2. Jake Locker
3. Brian Hoyer
4. Matt Moore
5. Ryan Mallett
6. Christian Ponder
7. Tarvaris Jackson
8. Shaun Hill
9. Michael Vick
10. Matt Hasselbeck
11. Colt McCoy
12. Jimmy Clausen
13. Jason Campbell
14. Dan Orlovsky
15. Blaine Gabbert
16. Josh Johnson
17. T.J. Yates
18. Tyrod Taylor
19. Luke McCown
20. Matt FlynnRunning Backs
1. DeMarco Murray
2. C.J. Spiller
3. Ryan Mathews
4. Mark Ingram
5. Justin Forsett
6. Frank Gore
7. Shane Vereen
8. Stevan Ridley
9. Roy Helu
10. Ahmad Bradshaw
11. Darren McFadden
12. Knowshon Moreno
13. Ray Rice
14. Ben Tate
15. Antone Smith
16. Daniel Thomas
17. Jacquizz Rodgers
18. Bilal Powell
19. Cedric Peerman
20. Leon WashingtonFullbacks
1. Henry Hynoski
2. Jed Collins
3. John Kuhn
4. Tyler Clutts
5. John Conner
6. Will Tukuafu
7. Jackie Battle
8. Montell OwensWide Receivers
1. Dez Bryant
2. Demaryius Thomas
3. Randall Cobb
4. Jeremy Maclin
5. Torrey Smith
6. Michael Crabtree
7. Kenny Britt
8. Cecil Shorts
9. Eddie Royal
10. Nate Washington
11. Wes Welker
12. Hakeem Nicks
13. Reggie Wayne
14. Denarius Moore
15. Leonard Hankerson
16. Dwayne Harris
17. Vincent Brown
18. Miles Austin
19. Jerrel Jernigan
20. Brandon Lloyd
21. Brad Smith
22. Santana Moss
23. Jason Avant
24. Marcus Easley
25. Derek Hagan
26. Robert Meachem
27. Greg Salas
28. Dane Sanzenbacher
29. Kevin Ogletree
30. Darrius Heyward-BeyTight Ends
1. Julius Thomas
2. Jordan Cameron
3. Charles Clay
4. Jermaine Gresham
5. Niles Paul
6. Rob Housler
7. Virgil Green
8. Owen Daniels
9. Lance Kendricks
10. Tony Moeaki
11. Lee Smith
12. Matt Spaeth
13. Dante Rosario
14. Jacob Tamme
15. Daniel Fells
16. Ed Dickson
17. David Ausberry
18. Luke Stocker
19. Anthony McCoy
20. Steve ManeriOffensive Tackles
1. Bryan Bulaga
2. Michael Roos
3. Doug Free
4. Derek Newton
5. King Dunlap
6. Joe Barksdale
7. Byron Bell
8. Jason Fox
9. Jermey Parnell
10. Ryan Harris
11. Joe Reitz
12. Eric Winston
13. Tyler Polumbus
14. Corey Hilliard
15. Marshall Newhouse
16. Erik Pears
17. Byron Stingily
18. Garry Williams
19. Ben Ijalana
20. Oniel CousinsGuards/Centers
1. Mike Iupati
2. Orlando Franklin
3. Rodney Hudson
4. Stefen Wisniewski
5. Clint Boling
6. James Carpenter
7. Brian De La Puente
8. Rob Sims
9. Will Montgomery
10. Nick Hardwick
11. Dominic Raiola
12. Jonathan Goodwin
13. Willie Colon
14. Joe Berger
15. Dan Connolly
16. Samson Satele
17. Daryn Colledge
18. Paul Fanaika
19. Gabe Carimi
20. John Jerry
21. Adam Snyder
22. Davin Joseph
23. James Brewer
24. Vlad Ducasse
25. Mike McGlynnEdge Defenders
1. Justin Houston
2. Jerry Hughes
3. Jason Pierre-Paul
4. Greg Hardy
5. Brian Orakpo
6. Pernell McPhee
7. Jabaal Sheard
8. Jason Worilds
9. Brandon Graham
10. Derrick Morgan
11. Adrian Clayborn
12. Akeem Ayers
13. Brooks Reed
14. John Abraham
15. George Selvie
16. George Johnson
17. O’Brien Schofield
18. James Harrison
19. Dwight Freeney
20. Sam Acho
21. Corey Wootton
22. Anthony Spencer
23. Osi Umenyiora
24. Kroy Biermann
25. Da’Quan Bowers
26. Shaun Phillips
27. Parys Haralson
28. Arthur Moats
29. Larry English
30. Marcus BenardInterior Defensive Linemen
1. Ndamukong Suh
2. Nick Fairley
3. Terrance Knighton
4. Dan Williams
5. Jared Odrick
6. Stephen Paea
7. C.J. Mosley
8. Henry Melton
9. Cory Redding
10. Letroy Guion
11. Corey Peters
12. B.J. Raji
13. Kevin Williams
14. Kenrick Ellis
15. Ahtyba Rubin
16. Tom Johnson
17. Jarvis Jenkins
18. Alan Branch
19. Alex Carrington
20. Dwan Edwards
21. Pat Sims
22. Tommy Kelly
23. Mike Patterson
24. Leger Douzable
25. Karl Klug
26. Colin Cole
27. Kevin Vickerson
28. Tyson Alualu
29. Demarcus Dobbs
30. Brandon Deaderick
31. Andre Fluellen
32. Fili Moala
33. D’Anthony Smith
34. Nick Hayden
35. Jarius Wynn
36. Chris Neild
37. Ricardo Mathews
38. Mitch Unrein
39. Terrence Cody
40. C.J. WilsonInside Linebackers
1. Brandon Spikes
2. David Harris
3. Mason Foster
4. Rolando McClain
5. Rey Maualuga
6. Jamari Lattimore
7. Larry Foote
8. Nate Irving
9. Colin McCarthy
10. Dane Fletcher
11. Moise Fokou
12. Darryl Sharpton
13. Kelvin Sheppard
14. Desmond Bishop
15. Mark Herzlich
16. Andrew Gachkar
17. Josh Mauga
18. D.J. Williams
19. Jasper Brinkley
20. Casey Matthews4-3 Outside Linebackers
1. Sean Weatherspoon
2. Malcolm Smith
3. Lance Briggs
4. Justin Durant
5. Jonathan Casillas
6. Bruce Carter
7. Jacquian Williams
8. Spencer Paysinger
9. Ashlee Palmer
10. J.T. Thomas
11. Geno Hayes
12. Ramon Humber
13. Chase Blackburn
14. Chris White
15. Larry DeanCornerbacks
1. Byron Maxwell
2. Brandon Flowers
3. Tramon Williams
4. Antonio Cromartie
5. Buster Skrine
6. Kareem Jackson
7. Perrish Cox
8. Jimmy Wilson
9. Patrick Robinson
10. Chris Culliver
11. Davon House
12. Rashean Mathis
13. Alan Ball
14. Walter Thurmond III
15. Terence Newman
16. Charles Tillman
17. Tarell Brown
18. Brice McCain
19. Darius Butler
20. Shareece Wright
21. Bradley Fletcher
22. Kyle Wilson
23. Josh Wilson
24. Robert McClain
25. Chris Cook
26. Ike Taylor
27. Brandon Harris
28. Carlos Rogers
29. Mike Jenkins
30. Antoine Cason
31. Danny Gorrer
32. E.J. Biggers
33. Chykie Brown
34. Josh Gordy
35. Cassius VaughnSafeties
1. Devin McCourty
2. Rahim Moore
3. Antrel Rolle
4. Louis Delmas
5. Marcus Gilchrist
6. Stevie Brown
7. Dawan Landry
8. Nate Allen
9. Da’Norris Searcy
10. Mike Adams
11. Darian Stewart
12. Ron Parker
13. Charles Woodson (Re-signed one-year deal w/ OAK)
14. Danieal Manning
15. Jeron Johnson
16. George Wilson
17. Dwight Lowery
18. Major Wright
19. Brandon Meriweather
20. Kendrick Lewis
21. Kurt Coleman
22. Chris Conte
23. Jeromy Miles
24. C.J. Spillman
25. Quintin Demps
26. Sergio Brown
27. Jarrett Bush
28. Quinton Carter
29. Taylor Mays
30. Chris ClemonsKickers
1. Stephen Gostkowski
2. Matt Bryant
3. Matt Prater
4. Mike Nugent
5. Shayne Graham
6. Ryan Succop
7. Jay Feely
8. Billy CundiffPunters
1. Brett Kern
2. Mat McBriarTop 40 Restricted Free Agents
1. Tashaun Gipson
2. Damon Harrison
3. Will Hill
4. Brandon Marshall
5. Derrick Shelby
6. Jerrell Freeman
7. Cedric Thornton
8. Justin Tucker
9. Andre Holmes
10. Emmanuel Lamur
11. Rodney McLeod
12. Greg Scruggs
13. Austin Davis
14. Chris Polk
15. A.Q. Shipley
16. Leonard Johnson
17. Bryce Harris
18. Chris Hairston
19. Lance Dunbar
20. Kamar Aiken
21. Jermaine Kearse
22. Sterling Moore
23. Matt Asiata
24. Travaris Cadet
25. Anthony Levine
26. Ishmaa’ily Kitchen
27. Bobby Rainey
28. Rod Streater
29. Lawrence Guy
30. Cole Beasley
31. Devon Still
32. Chris Jones
33. Bradley Sowell
34. Marquette King
35. Craig Robertson
36. Jarrett Boykin
37. Josh Bynes
38. Don Barclay
39. Alameda Ta’amu
40. Kai ForbathFebruary 3, 2015 at 12:13 am #17873znModeratorfrom off the net…I’ve heard this too
—
Contrarian
Wouldn’t sign Iupati. I live in NorCal and the reports from here is that he is about finished as an NFL player. Too many injuries that are not the ‘recoverable’ kind.
February 3, 2015 at 10:28 am #1788521DogParticipant>
Wouldn’t sign Iupati. I live in NorCal and the reports from here is that he is about finished as an NFL player. Too many injuries that are not the ‘recoverable’ kind.
I’d be wary of Iupati, too.
Not just the injuries, but he allowed more sacks than any guard in the league this year. <can’t seem to find that, but I’ve read it several times>
February 4, 2015 at 12:28 am #17906MackeyserModeratorI’d stay away from Carpenter. Seattle is letting him go because he’s a liability in pass coverage. They are looking to upgrade. The last thing we need is a guy who’s a decent Run blocker who can’t pass block when we desperately need our QB to stay upright.
Whomever that turns out to be.
I have this DREAD that the Snisher thinks Wells who graded out pretty well in 2013 just sees 2014 as a “tough it out” year which explains why he stunk on ice and they keep him as their starter.
Thus, it sets up only a competition for LG and backups.
Which…would be devastating.
Sports is the crucible of human virtue. The distillate remains are human vice.
February 6, 2015 at 9:24 am #18047znModeratorNot just the injuries, but he allowed more sacks than any guard in the league this year. <can’t seem to find that, but I’ve read it several times>
Well he allowed 8. http://stats.washingtonpost.com/fb/playerstats.asp?id=23992&team=25
PFF says 7 and they also say (like you said) that that was the worst among NFL guards last season.
February 6, 2015 at 9:40 am #18061znModeratorNow I don’t know how many will be re-signed…but there are some good to decent centers on this list.
Rodney Hudson
Stefen Wisniewski
Brian De La Puente
Will Montgomery
Jonathan Goodwin
Dan Connolly
Samson SateleFebruary 6, 2015 at 10:32 am #18070znModeratorRaiders, C Stefen Wisniewski disagree on his value
by Larry Hartstein | CBSSports.com
http://fantasynews.cbssports.com/fantasyfootball/story/25017508/offseason-extra-free-agents-in-2015
Raiders center Stefen Wisniewski is set to hit free agency after he and the team were unable to agree on a contract extension during the season, reports ESPN.com. Wisniewski has missed only three starts in his first four years.
Wisniewski, who made $938,000 in base salary last year, likely is looking for $3 million or more annually, the report said.
February 6, 2015 at 1:06 pm #18087rflParticipantWithout further ado, here are Around The NFL’s top 25 NFL free agents for 2015:
Not one OL on the list.
Zowie! Gotta question the criteria for a list that has no OL.
By virtue of the absurd ...
February 6, 2015 at 1:15 pm #18088sdramParticipantsdram wrote:
Without further ado, here are Around The NFL’s top 25 NFL free agents for 2015:Not one OL on the list.
Zowie! Gotta question the criteria for a list that has no OL.
There’s one but he’s been panned by several – Iupati from SF. Who would you add or change? It’s one guys opinion of the top 25 right now – but many of them will be resigned by their current teams. it appears to me that he values 3-4 pass rushers highly.
February 6, 2015 at 2:22 pm #18091wvParticipantRaiders, C Stefen Wisniewski disagree on his value
by Larry Hartstein | CBSSports.com
http://fantasynews.cbssports.com/fantasyfootball/story/25017508/offseason-extra-free-agents-in-2015
Raiders center Stefen Wisniewski is set to hit free agency after he and the team were unable to agree on a contract extension during the season, reports ESPN.com. Wisniewski has missed only three starts in his first four years.
Wisniewski, who made $938,000 in base salary last year, likely is looking for $3 million or more annually, the report said.
Seems like he might be the Rams number
one target. Yes? No?w
vFebruary 6, 2015 at 2:47 pm #18093znModeratorRaiders, C Stefen Wisniewski disagree on his value
by Larry Hartstein | CBSSports.com
http://fantasynews.cbssports.com/fantasyfootball/story/25017508/offseason-extra-free-agents-in-2015
Raiders center Stefen Wisniewski is set to hit free agency after he and the team were unable to agree on a contract extension during the season, reports ESPN.com. Wisniewski has missed only three starts in his first four years.
Wisniewski, who made $938,000 in base salary last year, likely is looking for $3 million or more annually, the report said.
Seems like he might be the Rams number
one target. Yes? No?w
vDunno. I think there’s a pretty decent number of veteran centers out there in free agency. He’s certainly one of them.
February 6, 2015 at 11:11 pm #18105ZooeyModeratorI never heard of Hudson before this list, but I like the idea of a 26 year old. So if he is any good, I’d like that signing.
I also think they should sign Suh. They need depth behind Donald.
February 7, 2015 at 8:34 am #18111WinnbradParticipantWisniewski, who made $938,000 in base salary last year, likely is looking for $3 million or more annually, the report said.
Seems like he might be the Rams number
one target. Yes? No?w
vI sure hope so. $3 million for a center than can start is chump change. Cut Wells, sign this Wisnieski guy, and move on.
February 10, 2015 at 11:23 am #18270GreatRamNTheSkyParticipantBrandon Flowers would be a great addition at corner.
Cromartie too. Both can cover with the best of them.
Some good WRs in this list. Torry Smith is very intriguing.
Grits
February 12, 2015 at 12:04 am #18346znhaterBlockedHalf of these guys wont even hit the market. Kinda like a Christmas list to choose from with half the items sold out by Christmas.
February 25, 2015 at 4:59 pm #19075AgamemnonParticipanthttp://www.sportsonearth.com/article/109450140/
February 16, 2015
Top 100 NFL Free Agents in 201578. Joe Barksdale, OT, Rams
51. Kenny Britt, WR, Rams
Lance, Kendricks – not listed.
February 25, 2015 at 5:04 pm #19076AgamemnonParticipantNFL Free Agency 2015: Position-by-position look at top players hitting the market
http://www.cincyjungle.com/2015/1/27/7922289/nfl-free-agency-2015-position-by-position
Quarterbacks
1. Jake Locker
2. Mark Sanchez
3. Ryan Mallett
4. Brian Hoyer
5. Matt Hasselbeck
6. Matt Moore
7. Tarvaris Jackson
8. Shaun Hill
9. Michael Vick
10. Christian Ponder
11. Colt McCoy
12. Jimmy Clausen
13. Tyrod Taylor
14. Dan Orlovsky
15. Jason CampbellWide Receivers
1. Dez Bryant
2. Demaryius Thomas
3. Randall Cobb
4. Jeremy Maclin
5. Torrey Smith
6. Michael Crabtree
7. Eddie Royal
8. Cecil Shorts
9. Kenny Britt
10. Nate Washington
11. Wes Welker
12. Hakeem Nicks
13. Reggie Wayne
14. Denarius Moore
15. Dwayne HarrisTight Ends
1. Julius Thomas
2. Charles Clay
3. Jordan Cameron
4. Jermaine Gresham
5. Niles Paul
6. Rob Housler
7. Lance Kendricks
8. Owen Daniels
9. Virgil Green
10. Tony Moeaki
11. Jacob Tamme
12. Matt Spaeth
13. Ed Dickson
14. Lee Smith
15. Daniel Fells.Offensive Tackles
1. Bryan Bulaga
2. Doug Free
3. Michael Roos
4. Joe Barksdale
5. King Dunlap
6. Derek Newton
7. Byron Bell
8. Jason Fox
9. Jermey Parnell
10. Eric WinstonGuards/Centers
1. Mike Iupati
2. Clint Boling
3. Rodney Hudson
4. Stefen Wisniewski
5. Orlando Franklin
6. James Carpenter
7. Brian De La Puente
8. Rob Sims9. Will Montgomery
10. Nick Hardwick
11. Dominic Raiola
12. Jonathan Goodwin
13. Samson Satele
14. Daryn Colledge
15. Dan ConnollyFebruary 25, 2015 at 5:09 pm #19077AgamemnonParticipantPrint and Go Back ESPN.com: St. Louis Rams [Print without images]
Wednesday, February 25, 2015
Rams free-agent preview: Tight ends
By Nick WagonerEARTH CITY, Mo. — The free-agent market is scheduled to open March 10 and teams may begin negotiations with those poised to hit the market beginning March 7. We’ll count down to that with a position-by-position look at what the St. Louis Rams have in place, who is set to hit the market, what they might need and who might fit the bill.
Under contract: Jared Cook, Alex Bayer, Justice Cunningham, Brad Smelley
Pending free agents: Lance Kendricks, Cory Harkey (restricted)
Kendricks
What’s needed: The Rams’ offense asks a lot of its tight ends, and they regularly deploy two or even three at a time. Cook, Kendricks and Harkey have played a lot over the past two seasons. Now that tight ends coach Rob Boras has more responsibility, particularly in the run game, it’s probably safe to assume that will only continue if not increase. Cook has been the best pass-catcher of the bunch, though he has yet to play up to the standard of the lucrative contract the Rams signed him to before the 2014 season. He’s still a solid piece, but the Rams would undoubtedly like more from him. Kendricks and Harkey have been jack-of-all-trade types who have played many positions and moved around a lot. The Rams love Harkey, and there is little chance that he will go elsewhere as a restricted free agent. Kendricks, on the other hand, might draw more interest than the Rams can overcome. Boras is a big fan of Kendricks because of his versatility, but Kendricks has said he’d like an expanded role in the passing game. The buzz in Indianapolis at the NFL combine indicated Kendricks might draw offers for roughly $4 million a year. If that happens, it might be difficult for the Rams to match. In that case, they could turn to promising youngsters Bayer or Cunningham for more, or look to find help elsewhere. A consistent threat at tight end isn’t a pressing need, but it sure wouldn’t hurt.Possible fits: There are some big names that figure to hit the market, including Denver’s Julius Thomas and Cleveland’s Jordan Cameron. But the Rams don’t figure to be bidders for either of those players considering their prices. Other names that could be available include Miami’s Charles Clay, Cincinnati’s Jermaine Gresham, and Baltimore’s Owen Daniels.
Verdict: There is almost no chance the Rams will allow both Harkey and Kendricks to depart. Although they would like to keep both, the guess here is that they retain Harkey but Kendricks lands a better offer with a bigger role in the passing game elsewhere. Remember, New England offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels was the man who pushed hardest for Kendricks in the 2011 draft. A reunion there could be one possibility. If indeed the Rams lose Kendricks, they might need to go in search of someone else to compete, but I wouldn’t expect such a replacement to be of the high-priced free agent variety.
February 27, 2015 at 1:37 pm #19196AgamemnonParticipantNFL
Find this article at:
http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000474533/article/top-101-nfl-free-agents-for-2015
Top 101 NFL free agents for 2015By Gregg Rosenthal and Chris Wesseling
Published: Feb. 27, 2015 at 11:31 a.m.
Updated: Feb. 27, 2015 at 12:57 p.m.TOP 101 free agents
TAG PREDICTIONS
FA BY TEAM
FA BY POSITION
RESTRICTED FANeed a pass rusher, running back or top-level wide receiver? This is a great free agency period for your team. Just don’t expect to find a quarterback, safety or offensive tackle.
Ranked below are our top 101 unrestricted free agents. Keep checking our list because salary cap casualties could be added before free agency starts. Based on who’s available, these are the players we’d want to sign:
Tier 1: Difference-makers1. Ndamukong Suh, DT, Detroit Lions: Outside of quarterbacks and the two unanimous All-Pros (J.J. Watt, Rob Gronkowski), Suh and Odell Beckham are the two unique talents around whom we would most like to build a franchise. A double-team defeater against the run as well as the pass, Suh is on a Hall-of-Fame career path. He holds all of the leverage in contract talks, as his franchise tag number is a prohibitive $26.7 million.
2. Justin Houston, OLB, Kansas City Chiefs: Houston, 26, came within one sack of breaking Michael Strahan’s single-season record last season. He has averaged a league-best 1.2 sacks per game over the past two years. One of our favorite obscure stats: Houston has committed zero penalties over that same span compared to 20 for Jerry Hughes. The Chiefs will apply the franchise tag if necessary.
3. Dez Bryant, WR, Dallas Cowboys: It’s a testament to Bryant’s NFL-best red-zone efficiency and bodacious run-after-catch ability that he has led the league with 41 touchdowns over the past three years despite a limited route tree. NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport has reported the franchise tag is almost a certainty because the Cowboys still have reservations about Bryant’s off-the-field behavior.
4. Demaryius Thomas, WR, Denver Broncos: For defensive backs there might not be a scarier sight than Thomas screaming off a bubble screen, all power and speed with eyes on the end zone. A model of consistency, Thomas has averaged roughly 100 receptions, 1,500 yards and 12 touchdowns per season since Peyton Manning arrived in 2012. The Broncos won’t let him reach the market.
5. Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, New York Giants: Finally free from nagging back pain, Pierre-Paul rounded into shape last year. More of a run-stuffer early in the first half of the season, he started torturing offensive tackles in November, recording nine sacks in the final five games. The Giants are fully expected to keep him via the franchise tag.
6. Devin McCourty, S, New England Patriots: The converted cornerback is not only one of the NFL’s best coverage safeties, but also a respected leader on the Super Bowl champions’ defense. McCourty, 27, considers New England home and wants to stay, by way of the franchise tag or a long-term deal.
7. Julius Thomas, TE, Denver Broncos: The two-time Pro Bowl selection isn’t much of a blocker and has struggled with ankle injuries in multiple seasons. Those concerns are trumped by a rare skill set as a mismatch creating space in the middle of the field, excelling after the catch and posting up in the red zone. Thomas is a difference-making talent in the prime of his career. There will be plenty of demand if he hits the market, as expected.
8. Randall Cobb, WR, Green Bay Packers: With Wes Welker in decline, Percy Harvin an annual enigma and Victor Cruz injured, Cobb is the NFL’s undisputed slot king entering the 2015 offseason. He’s a punt returner after the catch and has a mind meld with Aaron Rodgers on broken plays. If the Packers are serious about a Super Bowl run, Cobb must be re-signed.
9. DeMarco Murray, RB, Dallas Cowboys: Murray was a tackle-breaking monster for the first three months of the season en route to Offensive Player of the Year honors. The No. 1 concern for potential suitors isn’t the benefit of the Cowboys’ dominant offensive line. It’s that Murray was saddled up for a back-breaking 497 touches. He wasn’t as elusive in December and January. If Dallas applies the tag to Bryant, Murray could be set free.
Tier 2: Impact Starters10. Jerry Hughes, DE, Buffalo Bills: Hughes has averaged 10.0 sacks and 40 quarterback hurries over the past two years — numbers that place him just below Pro Bowl level. How much of that production is the result of feasting on easier matchups provided by the presence of dominant talents such as Marcell Dareus, Kyle Williams and Mario Williams?
11. Mike Iupati, G, San Francisco 49ers: He has been among the best maulers in the run game at guard in the entire league throughout his career. But Iupati is not great in pass protection and isn’t coming off his best season.
12. Greg Hardy, DE, Carolina Panthers: Hardy is not available to be signed until he comes off the Commissioner’s Exempt List, and he could be facing further suspension. But his talent, production and age are worth ranking in the top five here. Someone will give him a chance.
13. Byron Maxwell, CB, Seattle Seahawks: He’s the best option in a relatively thin cornerback crop. That makes him a candidate to be overpaid, but he’d fit well with former Seahawks assistants Gus Bradley or Dan Quinn.
14. Torrey Smith, WR, Baltimore Ravens: Speed kills. Smith has averaged nearly 17 yards per catch for his career and regularly draws long pass interference penalties. Just don’t expect him to be a true No. 1 receiver.
15. Jason Worilds, LB, Pittsburgh Steelers: He doesn’t always finish plays with sacks, but Worilds consistently pressures the quarterback. He will get paid.
16. Pernell McPhee, OLB/DE, Baltimore Ravens: He can rush standing up from the outside or play defensive tackle. But plenty of Ravens defenders have struggled away from Baltimore.
17. Jeremy Maclin, WR, Philadelphia Eagles: He might not be as productive away from Chip Kelly’s system. We suspect Kelly won’t let him get away.
18. Nick Fairley, DT, Detroit Lions: A boom-or-bust pickup, Fairley can be one of the best at his position when motivated.
19. Bryan Bulaga, T, Green Bay Packers: In a tackle-thin market, Bulaga offers rock solid starter status on the right side.
20. Jared Odrick, DT, Miami Dolphins: Quality, versatile defensive line starters are not easy to find in free agency.
21. Terrance Knighton, DT, Denver Broncos: One of the NFL’s premier run-stuffers, Knighton has played for new Raiders coach Jack Del Rio in every one of his six seasons. He’s a better scheme fit in Oakland than Denver.
2015 NFL DRAFT
(April 30-May 2 on NFL Network)Prospects: By name | Position | School
Mock drafts:
Jeremiah 3.0: Rams move on at QB
Davis 2.0: 5 WRs in first round
Zierlein 1.0: Enticing Winston-Evans duo
Brooks 1.0: Winston is right fit for BucsProspect rankings:
Mayock’s top 5 by position rankings
Jeremiah’s Top 50 draft prospect rankings
Bucky’s Big Board 2.0: Williams still No. 1
Brooks’ top 5 by position rankingsMore draft coverage:
Tracking 7 prospects’ draft journeys
Jeremiah: Draftee doppelgangers
Silver: Winston cements top pick status
CFB 24/7: Full ‘Path to Draft’ coverage22. Rodney Hudson, C, Kansas City Chiefs: There are whispers that Hudson’s goal is to become the NFL’s highest-paid center. We aren’t quite as high on him as we were on Alex Mack last year.
Tier 3: Starters with questions23. Brandon Graham, DE/OLB, Philadelphia Eagles: Best suited as a defensive end in a 4-3 defense, Graham has been a highly effective rotational pass rusher as an outside linebacker in Philly’s 3-4 scheme. Wesseling prefers him to Worilds.
24. Derrick Morgan, DE, Tennessee Titans: Much like Graham, Morgan gets more pressures than sacks. He’s also best utilized as a defensive end in a 4-3 scheme. He went to college in Atlanta. It’s no secret that the Falcons’ top need is pass rusher.
25. Brandon Flowers, CB, San Diego Chargers: Flowers is looking down the barrel of age 30, is too often nicked up and has size limitations that will scare off some teams. On the flip side, he played at a high level in bounce-back season last year.
26. Brian Orakpo, OLB, Washington Redskins: Prior to getting hit with the franchise tag early last March, Orakpo held down a top-10 spot on our list — only to go down with his third career torn pectoral injury. The Falcons were reportedly hot on his trail at this time in 2014.
27. Kareem Jackson, CB, Houston Texans: After struggling early in his career, Jackson has developed into a solid starter capable of playing inside and outside. He’s tight with Vance Joseph, the Bengals’ esteemed defensive backs coach.
28. Mark Ingram, RB, New Orleans Saints: Still just 25 years old with little tread on his tires, Ingram should attract plenty of interest on the heels of a breakout 2014 season. The cap-strapped Saints can’t afford a back of his caliber.
29. Michael Crabtree, WR, San Francisco 49ers: Crabtree denied playing through a foot injury last season, but the game film suggests otherwise. Any team signing him will be to hope he can recover the impressive pre-Achilles tear form that helped propel the 49ers into Super Bowl XLVII.
30. Ryan Mathews, RB, San Diego Chargers: While injury prone, Mathews is one of the hardest-running early-down backs in the league. He’s a perfect player to pair with a pass-catching back in the draft.
31. C.J. Spiller, RB, Buffalo Bills: Chris Wesseling wanted to rank Spiller much higher, but “peak Spiller” has only come out once in five seasons. He’s a great complementary part, not a foundation to build around.
32. Charles Clay, TE, Miami Dolphins: More of a versatile H-back than a big-bodied tight end, Clay is reportedly seeking $6 million annually. The Dolphins want to keep him, but they’ll have competition from the Bills and others.
33. Jabaal Sheard, DE, Cleveland Browns: Often overlooked and overrated, Sheard can provide solid starter snaps at a reasonable price.
34. Orlando Franklin, G/T, Denver Broncos: He excelled as a guard last season, and Franklin’s versatility to help out at right tackle will earn him money in a thin offensive line market.
35. Chris Culliver, CB, San Francisco 49ers: He hasn’t been the most consistent player throughout his career and he previously suffered a torn ACL, but Culliver has loads of talent. He’s coming off a strong season and has a high ceiling.
36. Rahim Moore, S, Denver Broncos: Forget that play against Baltimore. Moore has developed into a quality starting safety, and he’s only 25 years old.
37. Dan Williams, NT, Arizona Cardinals: Williams has improved every season since getting taken in the first round during the Whisenhunt/Graves era. There are way more 3-4 defenses in the NFL than there are true nose tackles like Williams.
38. Jordan Cameron, TE, Cleveland Browns: If this list came out a year ago, Cameron would have ranked in the top 15 because he’s a matchup nightmare. Concussion woes now jeopardize Cameron’s future.
39. Frank Gore, RB, San Francisco 49ers: The Inconvenient Truth can still block, catch and turn a 1-yard stuff into a 4-yard gain like a boss. He’s a nice veteran short-term pickup for a team seeking a title.
40. B.J. Raji, DT, Green Bay Packers: 2013 was an off year. 2014 was an injury year. The talent is there, but it’s been a while since we’ve seen it.
41. David Harris, LB, New York Jets: Harris is on the wrong side of 30, but he’s reportedly drawing interest from the Bills, Dolphins, Bears and Falcons, in addition to the Jets.
42. Stefen Wisniewski, C, Oakland Raiders: Wisniewski is a solid starter in his prime. So why are the Raiders being linked to Hudson as his replacement?
43. Davon House, CB, Green Bay Packers: House is seeking a starting job after four years as a sub-package corner in Green Bay. Don’t be surprised if the Packers re-sign him and allow Tramon Williams to walk.
44. Tramon Williams, CB, Green Bay Packers: Williams was an above-average starter last season, but he turns 32 years old next month. He will have to settle for a short-term contract.
45. Stephen Paea, DT, Chicago Bears: The Bears have struggled up front against the run, but Paea did emerge as a disruptive pocket pusher last season.
46. Henry Melton, DT, Dallas Cowboys: A Rosenthal favorite, Melton was effective for the majority of last season as an interior pass rusher.
47. Brandon Spikes, LB, Buffalo Bills: Spikes has a niche skill-set as a premier two-down run-stuffer.
48. Antonio Cromartie, CB, Arizona Cardinals: Still a quality starter, Cromartie seems likely to follow Todd Bowles to New York for a reunion with the Jets.
49. Sean Weatherspoon, LB, Atlanta Falcons: Weatherspoon was the Falcons’ top defender before Lisfranc, knee and Achilles injuries limited him to 20 of a possible 48 games over the last three seasons.
50. Cecil Shorts, WR, Jacksonville Jaguars: Similar to Miles Austin a few years back, Shorts is a strong after-the-catch threat whose explosiveness has been sapped by lingering soft-tissue injuries. Word around the campfire is that he is interested in a Cleveland homecoming.
51. Shane Vereen, RB, New England Patriots: The Gronk generation’s answer to Kevin Faulk in New England, Vereen is basically a younger version of Reggie Bush at this point.
52. Antrel Rolle, S, New York Giants: The weekly hot takes on his radio appearances are more consistent than his pass coverage.
53. Doug Free, T, Dallas Cowboys: Notice how there are only right tackles available in free agency?
54. Rolando McClain, LB, Dallas Cowboys: Does any team want to bet on lightning striking twice without any more drama? McClain probably has more value to the Cowboys than any other team.
55. Perrish Cox, CB, San Francisco 49ers: Something is in the water in San Francisco, where the 49ers have coached up a lot of cornerbacks to career years. Cox played like a Pro Bowl pick for much of last season.
56. Clint Boling, G, Cincinnati Bengals: True starting guards like Boling usually get paid big money on the open market.
57. Jake Locker, QB, Tennessee Titans: Accuracy and durability are issues, but Locker has a higher ceiling than any of the other quarterback options in free agency. At best, he should compete to start.
58. Justin Forsett, RB, Baltimore Ravens: Don’t expect a big contract after Forsett’s big season, but he’s a nice fit for any team running zone blocking.
59. Da’Norris Searcy, S, Buffalo Bills: With few quality safeties out there, Searcy looks like a smart value pickup.
60. Joe Barksdale, T, St. Louis Rams: You can plug him in to start at right tackle.
61. Kenny Britt, WR, St. Louis Rams: The good: Britt established a career-high with 48 receptions last season. The bad: He topped 70 yards in just two games.
62. James Carpenter, OG, Seattle Seahawks: Too often a liability in pass protection, Carpenter hasn’t lived up to his first-round draft pedigree.
63. Stephen Gostkowski, K, New England Patriots: Gostkowski has led the NFL in field goals over the past two seasons, converting an impressive 93.6 percent.
Tier 4: Needs the right role64. Ryan Mallett, QB, Houston Texans: Here’s what we know about Mallett: He has an impressive whip; the Patriots gave him away for a sixth-round draft pick; it took him three months to unseat Ryan Fitzpatrick; coach Bill O’Brien protected him with an outstanding game plan in his first start; he went down with a season-ending injury in his second start.
65. Walter Thurmond, CB, New York Giants: Thurmond was a highly effective slot corner in 2013, but that is the only season in which he has stayed healthy.
66. Josh McCown, QB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Is McCown the quarterback who nearly carried the Bears to the playoffs two years ago or the quarterback who face-planted behind a turnstile offensive line in Tampa last season? Yes.
67. Buster Skrine, CB, Cleveland Browns: Playing opposite Joe Haden, Skrine has been targeted more than any cornerback in the league over the past two years. At 5-foot-9 and 185 pounds, he might be viewed as an inside corner on the open market.
68. Mark Sanchez, QB, Philadelphia Eagles: At one point last season, Sanchez had joined Andrew Luck, Aaron Rodgers, Tom Brady and Peyton Manning as the only quarterback overseeing an offense that averaged more than 30 points and 400 yards per game. Then he reverted into one of the game’s most mistake-prone signal-callers with the season on the line.
69. Kendrick Lewis, S, Houston Texans: Lewis salvaged his value by emerging as one of the most consistent defensive backs in Houston after a subpar showing with the Chiefs in 2013.
70. Brian Hoyer, QB, Cleveland Browns: If the goal is to hold the fort for a raw rookie, teams could do a lot worse than Hoyer. If the goal is to contend for the playoffs with Hoyer under center, his limitations will be exposed — just as they were down the stretch last season.
71. Mason Foster, LB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Foster didn’t fit Lovie Smith’s defense, but looked like a decent young starter in 2013. Perhaps he could join old friend Raheem Morris in Atlanta.
72. Dwight Freeney, LB/DE, San Diego Chargers: Freeney is strictly a situational pass rusher now, although he can still be effective.
73. Reggie Bush, RB, Detroit Lions: For the right price (one-year, $3.5 million), Bush can still help teams as a passing-down threat.
74. Bruce Carter, LB, Dallas Cowboys: Carter makes plenty of big plays, but he gives them up as well.
75. Cory Redding, DE, Indianapolis Colts: Aside from Vontae Davis, Redding was outplaying anyone on the Colts’ defense in the playoffs last season.
76. Brooks Reed, LB, Houston Texans: Peter King once predicted Reed would win Defensive Player of the Year. That should be worth something.
77. Kendall Langford, DT, St. Louis Rams: Quality rotation defensive linemen are not easy to find. Langford was only cut because he was paid big money and was backing up Aaron Donald.
78. Jermaine Gresham, TE, Cincinnati Bengals: He’s a below average starter and an above average backup.
79. Rey Maualuga, LB, Cincinnati Bengals: Marvin Lewis’ defense struggled without Maualuga and instincts last year. He’s a decent bet to return.
80. Jarvis Jenkins, DE, Washington Redskins: Jenkins never made the leap as a second-round draft pick billed as the prototype 3-4 defensive end.
81. Mike Adams, S, Indianapolis Colts: Adams exceeded expectations as a late-period free-agent signing, solidifying the back end of the Colts’ defense. Will there be much interest in a 34-year-old safety?
82. Akeem Ayers, LB, New England Patriots: Ayers played a key role for the Super Bowl champions after the 2-14 Titans couldn’t find a spot for him.
83. Hakeem Nicks, WR, Indianapolis Colts: Nicks regained a semblance of his playmaking form down the stretch last season, but the Colts didn’t think highly enough of him to bench an obviously struggling Reggie Wayne.
84. Karl Klug, DE, Tennessee Titans We see Klug as a situational pass rusher who could surprise with six to eight sacks in a 4-3 defense like Seattle’s.
85. Stevan Ridley, RB, New England Patriots: Ridley is an interesting power back, albeit one coming off ACL surgery.
86. Roy Helu, RB, Washington Redskins: Helu might have overtaken Pierre Thomas as the best screen-pass specialist in the league last year.
87. Ahmad Bradshaw, RB, Indianapolis Colts: Bradshaw is effective whenever he plays. Unfortunately, that seems to be roughly a half-dozen times per year. One of the most hard-charging backs in the league has been betrayed by his lower legs.
88. Ahtyba Rubin, DT, Cleveland Browns: Rubin once had a reputation as a premier run-plugger. The Browns had the league’s worst run defense in 2014.
89. Adrian Clayborn, DE, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: The No. 20 overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft ended up playing just 36 games in four years with the Bucs. Even when healthy, Clayborn hasn’t been disruptive as a pass rusher.
90. Charles Tillman, CB, Chicago Bears: Former coach Marc Trestman believed that Tillman was playing at a Pro Bowl level early last season. On the other hand, Tillman is a 34-year-old cornerback coming off a second torn triceps injury.
91. Lance Briggs, LB, Chicago Bears: The seven-time Pro Bowl selection isn’t going to hang with tight ends in coverage in his mid-thirties, but he can still provide solid run defense with a move inside if the Bears opt to bring him back for a 13th season.
92. Rob Housler, TE, Arizona Cardinals: Housler is one of the NFL’s speediest tight ends, but Bruce Arians doesn’t have any use for that species if they don’t block. He needs a change of scenery.
93. Denarius Moore, WR, Oakland Raiders: A perennial tease.
94. C.J. Mosley, DT, Detroit Lions: A late bloomer, Mosley is coming off the most effective season of his 10-year career.
95. Patrick Robinson, CB, New Orleans Saints: An oft-burned first-round draft bust through four seasons, Robinson was noticeably stingier in coverage last year.
96. Ron Parker, S, Kansas City Chiefs: A career special teamer, Parker started 15 games last season, splitting his time between cornerback and safety. That versatility has value.
97. Anthony Spencer, DE, Dallas Cowboys: Returning from microfracture surgery, Spencer struggled to make an impact before coming on in late December.
98. Brian Hartline, WR, Miami Dolphins: He had two recent 1,000-yard seasons and he’s not yet 30, but Hartline is best used as a third receiver.
99. O’Brien Schofield, DE, Seattle Seahawks: Schofield flashed as a rotational pass rusher on a Super Bowl team.
100. Malcolm Smith, LB, Seattle Seahawks: Smith went from Super Bowl MVP to Super Bowl benchwarmer in one calendar year. Perhaps Dan Quinn will recruit him to Atlanta.
101. Michael Vick, QB, New York Jets: We still believed Vick could help a team last offseason, but his heart didn’t seem to be in the one-year Jets stint.
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