Wide Receivers Highlight 2012 Free Agent Class

Added on Feb 20, 2012 by Scott in

NFL

As NFL teams mull over whether or not to utilize their franchise tags, a sizable free agent class patiently waits, uncertain of where they’ll be playing in 2012. While it’s obvious players like Drew Brees and Ray Rice won’t be relocating, the same can’t be said for a few of the excellent wide receivers that could be available if they aren’t slapped with a tag. The list is long and chock-full of talent.

Wes Welker (Patriots) – It’s highly unlikely Welker won’t be awarded an extension, but a career 2011 season that saw him set personal bests in receiving yards and touchdowns means he won’t come cheap. Unless the two sides reach a deal soon, he’ll probably be tagged. He’s only 30, so a long-term deal makes sense.

Dwayne Bowe (Chiefs) – Considering the skill position cupboard is extremely bare in Kansas City, Bowe will at the very least be tagged. The ex-LSU Tiger has been money the last two years, totaling 153 catches and 20 touchdowns. Steve Breaston was decent as a number two, but rookie Jon Baldwin struggled to make an impact. Letting Bowe exit would be a huge mistake.

DeSean Jackson (Eagles) – Despite his petulant behavior and terrible hands, D-Jax will be an Eagle in 2012. Andy Reid has a history of keeping young talent in house, and Jackson’s deep speed is vital to the Birds offensive scheme. However, unless he comes down on his asking price, a lengthy extension could be shelved.

Vincent Jackson (Chargers) – After playing on one-year deals the last two seasons, Vinny is a prime candidate to look elsewhere. General Manager A.J. Smith refused Jackson big money in the past, but considering he and head coach Norv Turner are facing a win or bust 2012, he might rethink his negotiating platform. Jackson is very good, but he’s not in the elite category.

Stevie Johnson (Bills) – Like the Chiefs, Buffalo isn’t strong in the playmaking department. Johnson was a non-factor until Ryan Fitzpatrick took the helm in 2010. In his last two seasons, Stevie has snagged 158 passes and scored 17 times. Besides running back Fred Jackson, he’s Buffalo’s best weapon. At they very least, he’ll be tagged.

Marques Colston (Saints) – Colston has eclipsed 1000 yards in five of his six campaigns and has a Super Bowl ring to boot. However, nagging injuries have limited him throughout his career. With the emergence of tight end Jimmy Graham and running back Darren Sproles, Colston could sign elsewhere, although with teammate Robert Meachem also a FA, his bargaining position is much improved.

Brandon Lloyd (Rams) – Lloyd’s breakout 2010 season didn’t translate into a massive contract. Instead, he was traded to to the lowly Rams midway through 2011. The Rams have said they don’t plan to tag him, which means he’ll probably walk. However, Sam Bradford might be able to convince the veteran to stay. St. Louis isn’t exactly a hotbed of receiving talent.

Mario Manningham (Giants) – The Super Bowl hero seems all but gone. With Victor Cruz and Hakeem Nicks the clear top two passing options, Manningham is the odd man out, unless he remains at a reduced rate. Look for some foolish team (Redskins, Bears) to overpay to acquire his mediocre services.

Reggie Wayne (Colts) – Last but not least is Wayne, who is coming off his worst season since 2003. Some of his decline can be attributed to Indy’s atrocious quarterback play, but at 33, the former Hurricane is entering the twilight of a Hall of Fame type career. It appears the new front office regime is in rebuild mode, which means Wayne probably isn’t in their future plans. That said, the veteran should have little trouble latching on to a wideout-needy franchise.