Best Remaining NFL Free Agents
Added on May 10, 2012 by Scott in
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With the NFL draft in the rearview mirror, the so-called offseason is entering a lull period. As teams begin to negotiate rookie contracts and pencil in depth charts, there are still a number decent free agents available on the open market waiting for their phones to ring. With OTA and mini-camp injuries an inevitability, some of these players will find employment sooner than later. Let’s take a look at the best names available.
QB Vince Young – VY wasn’t exactly stellar when he filled in for an injured Mike Vick last season in Philly, but he did show excellent arm strength and athleticism. His accuracy is below average and he won’t fit every system, although he is a veteran signal-caller with big game experience. Considering the current state of quarterbacking, teams could do a lot worse than Young.
RB Cedric Benson – Kinda hard to believe a 29-year-old runner coming off a 1000-yard 2011 is still without a job. Benson was a bust the first four years of his career, but he’s rushed for at least 1000 yards in each of his last three seasons and appears to have plenty of gas left in the tank as a decent number one or great number two back, provided he stops throwing punches in bars.
RB Ryan Grant – He became expendable in Green Bay’s pass heavy offense, but he does bring value as a solid backup with a pair of 1200-yard seasons on his resume. Teams like the Jets and Colts would be wise to give him a look. Detroit has been rumored to be interested, although no contract has been offered yet.
WR Mark Clayton – The ex-Raven and Ram was on his way to a career season in 2010 with then rookie Sam Bradford at quarterback until a torn patellar tendon ended his year after five games. He played sparingly in 2011, but if he’s healthy he could pay dividends as a number three receiver.
TE Visanthe Shiancoe – His best season came with Brett Favre under center, so pairing with a young quarterback might not be a recipe for success. That said, Shiancoe has shown flashes of greatness throughout his career and in the right situation could post serviceable numbers as a starter or reserve.
OG Bobbie Williams – He’s 35 and coming off a broken ankle, but if a team needed a steady guard in a pinch, Williams should be at the top of the list.
C Jason Brown – Three years ago he was being courted by several teams looking to add an up and coming center. After inking a $37.5 million deal with the Rams he turned into a major flop. Was it the culture of losing in St. Louis, or is he simply overrated?
DE Andre Carter – A torn left quad derailed arguably his best season as a pro last year with the Patriots. If he’s fully recovered he can bring speed off the edge in a 3-4.
CB Bryant McFadden – He’s probably not a starter at this stage of his career. However, he owns a pair of Super Bowl rings and would bring a veteran presence to a young secondary.
