Evan Silva's Top 50 Fa's

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Free Agent Top 150
By Evan Silva 13 hours ago Rotoworld

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Evan Silva unveils his Top 150 NFL Free Agents for the 2014 offseason, like Denver's Eric Decker
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In addition to producing forty times and bench-press totals, the Scouting Combine serves as an NFL nerve center for forthcoming offseason player acquisition. While measurables may influence draft stock in May, free agency occurs in March and will set the table for rookie targets. Ideally, teams enter the draft having addressed their rosters in such a way that they can select best players available rather than fill needs. After the Combine, front-office executives will resume gathering information on this year's free agent class. They'll create free agency charts long before their draft boards are finalized.

This is my attempt at a 2014 Free Agency Board. Just keep in mind that many of the top names here will be removed from the free agent pool due to franchise tags or re-signings. But until those happen, all impending free agents must be considered to prevent against any free agents slipping through the cracks.

1. Tight end Jimmy Graham -- Former shot-blocking college basketball player. Arguably the biggest mismatch creator in pro football. Turned 27 in November. Led NFL in TD catches (16) in 2013 and has 39 end-zone trips the past three seasons, including playoffs. Won't leave New Orleans.

2. Defensive end Greg Hardy -- Measured 6-foot-4, 281 coming out of Ole Miss. Now listed at 290. 36-inch vertical and explosive 10-foot-1 broad jump. 26 sacks the past two seasons, playing right end and some tackle in sub-packages. Turns 26 in July. Nicknamed "The Kraken." Willing to play under franchise tag ($12.6 million), but Panthers want long-term commitment.

3. Left tackle Eugene Monroe -- Franchise left tackle. Turns 27 in April. Only start he's missed the past two seasons occurred following his October trade from Jacksonville to Baltimore, which cost the Ravens 2014 fourth- and fifth-round picks. Because GM Ozzie Newsome has invested in him, Monroe seems unlikely to leave. Top-ten left tackle per Pro Football Focus in three straight years.

4. Free safety Jairus Byrd -- True center-field safety. Ballhawk. Averaging 4.4 interceptions and 2.2 forced fumbles per season. Turned 27 in October. Repped by Eugene Parker, infamous for driving a hard bargain. Held out of most of 2013 camp, then missed first five games with plantar fasciitis. Otherwise durable. Old defensive coordinator Mike Pettine is now Browns head coach.

5. Outside linebacker Brian Orakpo -- At least 8.5 sacks in each of four healthy seasons, including 10.0 in 2013. Has torn left pectoral twice in NFL. Not quite "elite" outside rusher, but close. In negotiations with Redskins, who need him. Could be franchise tagged before March 3 deadline.

6. Left tackle Jared Veldheer -- Had never missed an NFL game before tearing triceps last August. Started final five contests, allowing two sacks. Allowed five sacks across 16 starts the year before. Outstanding pass protector and not a liability in run game. Highly athletic at 6-foot-8, 312. Expressed displeasure with Raiders' pace of contract talks in early February.

7. Defensive end Michael Johnson -- Sack total dipped from 11.5 in 2012 to 3.5 in 2013, but had career highs in tackles (56), forced fumbles (2), and batted passes (9). Despite drop-off in sacks, graded out as Pro Football Focus' No. 4 4-3 defensive end, behind only Robert Quinn, Cameron Wake, and Hardy. Was No. 2 against the run. Fully expected to leave Cincinnati.

8. Cornerback Brent Grimes -- Tore Achilles' tendon in Week 1 of 2012, but made setback-free recovery and started all 16 games with Dolphins in 2013. Earned NFL Comeback Player of Year consideration, intercepting four passes. Explosive leaper plays bigger than size (5'10/190). Has shutdown cover skills at left corner. Does not want to play under franchise tag ($11.4 million).

9. Center Alex Mack -- Plus-sized pivot (6'4/311) has started 80-of-80 career games. 21st overall pick in 2009 draft. Turned 28 in November. Top-ten center in Pro Football Focus' ratings five straight years, including No. 4 finish in '13. The Browns have begun negotiations to keep him.

10. Cornerback Aqib Talib -- History of troubles off field, but very few on it when healthy. Has never completed a full 16-game season. 6-foot-1, 205-pound press corner. Patriots coach Bill Belichick felt comfortable isolating Talib on No. 1 receivers and Jimmy Graham last season. Held Graham catch-less in Week 6. Just turned 28. Will not be franchise tagged by New England.

11. Cornerback Alterraun Verner -- Breakout 2013 campaign after Titans spent all spring trying to bench him for Tommie Campbell. Can cover slot but plays best at right corner. Plus run defender. Only 25. Very likely to leave Tennessee. Has history with new Vikings DBs coach Jerry Gray.

12. Left tackle Branden Albert -- Quality pass protector with top-shelf athleticism, but sub-par run blocker with durability concerns. Missed four games in 2013 with knee injury. Missed three games with back injury in 2012. Pursued by Miami last offseason, and Arizona to lesser extent. Won't return to Chiefs. Played guard in college, with Monroe at left tackle. Entering his age-30 season.

13. Defensive lineman Lamarr Houston -- Listed at 6-foot-3, 300 pounds by Raiders but plays much lighter on his feet. Not a sack specialist (career-high 6.0 in '13) but disruptive versus both run and pass. Can play defensive tackle and end. Scheme versatile. Turns 27 years old in June.

14. Defensive lineman Michael Bennett -- Inside-out lineman can play end and tackle. Recently asked if he'd accept hometown discount. Replied, "This isn't Costco." Has never topped 9.0 sacks in a season, but disruption is production. Equally stout run defender. Turned 28 in November.

15. Wide receiver Eric Decker -- Touchdown scorer. 2012-2013 stats inflated by Peyton Manning, but scored eight times with Kyle Orton and Tim Tebow in 2011. Does not change coverage, but high-end No. 2 receiver will be paid like a No. 1. Expected to command $9-10 million per year.

16. Cornerback Vontae Davis -- Pro Football Focus' No. 3 corner in 2013, behind only Darrelle Revis and Grimes. Finished No. 2 in pass coverage. Compact build at 5-foot-11, 204 with 37 1/2-inch vertical. Some history of shadowing No. 1 receivers, but not in Indy. Wants to stay with Colts.

17. Defensive tackle Henry Melton -- Classic three-technique interior pass rusher. Played some tailback at Texas. Bears franchise player in 2013, tore left ACL on September 22. Collected 13 sacks and two forced fumbles as 29-game starter across 2011-12. Says he's "80-90%" healthy.

18. Outside linebacker Jason Worilds -- Turns 26 in March. Registered 1.58-second ten-yard split at 2010 Combine, best among pass rushers. Started career slow but broke out for 8.0 sacks and two forced fumbles as 11-game starter in '13. Steelers have seemingly made re-signing Worilds a priority, with rumors suggesting they'd release LaMarr Woodley to create enough salary cap room.

19. Tight end Dennis Pitta -- Would've led Ravens in receptions if healthy in 2013. Dislocated and fractured his hip on July 27, costing Pitta all but four games. Plays nearly 80% of his snaps at slot receiver. Went 61-669-7 in breakout '12 campaign. Turns 29 in June and could be disappointed if he tested the open market. Best fit in Baltimore. Likely to be tagged if no multi-year deal reached.

20. Defensive tackle Linval Joseph -- 25-year-old dual-threat interior lineman both stuffs run and can push pocket. Arrow pointing up. Primarily an inside plugger but has seven sacks and two forced fumbles the past two seasons. Pro Football Focus' No. 21 defensive tackle last year, among 69 qualifiers. Joseph will not come cheap and may price himself out of the Giants' range.

21. Strong safety T.J. Ward -- Does best work in box, but not a liability in coverage and can match up competitively with most tight ends. Turned 27 in December. Among defensive backs, only Barry Church and Eric Weddle had more tackles last season than Ward's 112. May be tagged, which would cost Browns $8.12 million. New GM Ray Farmer is prioritizing Ward.

22. Cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie -- Finally realized immense potential under Jack Del Rio in '13. Shutdown coverage skills on perimeter. Per Pro Football Focus, allowed just one touchdown catch over Denver's final 14 games, including postseason. Turns 28 in April. Odd character; openly spoke of retirement during Super Bowl week. Sleeper to receive franchise tag.

23. Defensive lineman Jason Hatcher -- Switched from 3-4 end to 4-3 "three-technique" tackle in 2013, and set career highs in sacks (11), batted passes (3), and forced fumbles (2). Previous career best for sacks was 4.5. Turns 32 before next season. Will not be tagged by Cowboys.

24. Left tackle Anthony Collins -- Annually among most underrated linemen in football. 28 years old. Zero sacks allowed in eight starts last season. Bengals want him back to start at left tackle.

25. Defensive tackle Randy Starks -- Versatile 30-year-old interior presence equally effective versus pass and run. Displeased he was tagged in '13 and appears likely to leave Dolphins.

26. Defensive lineman Arthur Jones -- Classic five-technique 3-4 end. Turns 28 in June. Better than Ricky Jean-Francois, whom Colts gave a four-year, $22 million contract last offseason.

27. Defensive end Everson Griffen -- Turned 26 in December. 13.5 sacks the past two seasons despite playing behind Jared Allen and Brian Robison. Can play linebacker, end, and tackle.

28. Cornerback Sam Shields -- Set career highs in starts (14), tackles (51), pass breakups (17), and interceptions (4) last year. 4.30 speed. Inconsistent cover man but generally a plus starter.

29. Cornerback Walter Thurmond III -- Primarily slot corner in Seattle but functional outside. Only eight career starts, one interception. Turns 27 before season. PFF's No. 31 cornerback last year.

30. Defensive tackle Paul Soliai -- Space-eating two-down nose at 6-foot-4, 345. Turned 30 in December. Can anchor a run defense. Scheme versatile. Not much of a factor against pass.

31. Guard Geoff Schwartz -- Can play three positions on the line (RG, LG, RT). Best suited for right guard. Mauling power blocker, alley clearer. 6-foot-6, 340. Turns 28 before next season.

32. Tackle/guard Rodger Saffold -- Can play four positions (LG, RG, RT, LT). Turns 26 in June. Has missed 17 games the past three seasons with two knee injuries and torn pectoral muscle.

33. Defensive lineman B.J. Raji -- Talented 27-year-old has quietly been a disappointment in NFL. Zero sacks over last 39 games, including playoffs. Zero career forced fumbles. Also not a stout run defender. Turned down $8 million-a-year offer from Packers in 2013. Will be high-risk signing.

34. Wide receiver Jeremy Maclin -- Turns 26 in May. Tore right ACL last July. Has some big-play ability, but not a physical receiver. Had best season (70-964-10) in 2010. Wants to stay in Philly.

35. Inside linebacker Donald Butler -- Turned 25 last October. Not elite run defender but leader, playmaker, and every-down linebacker. Chargers have begun negotiations to re-sign Butler.

36. Center Brian De La Puente -- Top-16 center per Pro Football Focus in three straight seasons. Turns 29 in May. Saints have lots of money tied up at guard and won't overpay to keep him.

37. Wide receiver Hakeem Nicks -- Zero TDs last 18 games. Three TDs last 29 games. Major effort and on-field ability question marks. Once tilted coverage. Now a boom-or-bust signing. Due to poor recent film, Nicks may come surprisingly cheap.

38. Inside linebacker Karlos Dansby -- Had monster year in his 2013 return to Arizona, with 6.5 sacks and four interceptions. Turned 32 in December. Says he wants to stay with Cardinals.

39. Wide receiver Julian Edelman -- Set career highs across board in '13 (105-1,056-6). Highly efficient slot/Z receiver with plus punt return value. Turns 28 in May. Tom Brady wants him back.

40. Strong safety Donte Whitner -- PFF's No. 6 safety last season. No. 4 in pass coverage, but best as box defender. Not a ballhawk. Turns 29 in July. Expected to reach the open market.


41. Defensive end Jared Allen -- Sack numbers still there, but skills noticeably declining. Turns 32 in April. Seahawks and Broncos had interest in trading for Allen before last October's deadline.

42. Cornerback Charles Tillman -- Dominant in 2012 but fell apart physically in 2013, missing 8-of-16 games with groin, knee, and triceps injuries. Triceps tear ended his season in November. As Lovie Smith is now in Tampa, Tillman could follow him there as a stopgap starter opposite Darrelle Revis.

43. Defensive end Justin Tuck -- In contract-year push, racked up 9.5 sacks over final six 2013 games after managing 5.5 across previous 25 appearances. Turns 31 soon. Better run defender than pass rusher at this stage. Limited to left end in a 4-3. Tuck plans to test the open market.

44. Guard Travelle Wharton -- Turns 33 in May, so obviously a short-term fix. Best position is left guard, but can also play tackle. PFF's No. 5 guard in 2013. Anchored Carolina's offensive line. Rumors he is weighing retirement.

45. Cornerback Tarell Brown -- Above-average starter at outside corner. Just turned 29. Smallish (5'11/193) press corner. 49ers want Brown back, but he's expected to test free agent market first.

46. Defensive lineman Antonio Smith -- Can play 3-4 end and 4-3 tackle. At least five sacks in three straight years. Hasn't missed a game for health reasons since '05. Entering age-33 season.

47. Inside linebacker Brandon Spikes -- Two-down role player, but a good one. Classic inside run thumper. History of knee problems. Entering age-27 campaign. Won't be back with New England.

48. Strong safety Antoine Bethea -- Stretched at free safety. More of a box defender. Turns 30 in July. Career Colt. Hasn't missed a start since 2007. Consistent but not a real difference maker.

49. Free safety Chris Clemons -- Surprisingly met by cold market last offseason. Settled for one-year, $2.75 million deal to stay in Miami. Not a ballhawk but top-10 cover safety in 2013 per PFF.

50. Defensive tackle Clinton McDonald -- Key piece of Seattle's deep line rotation. Played 53% of Seahawks' defensive snaps in 2013. Interior pocket pusher. Tallied 5.5 sacks. Just turned 27.

51. Inside linebacker Daryl Smith -- Signed off scrapheap by Ozzie Newsome last June after injury-ruined 2012 season. Became Baltimore's defensive playcaller. Set career bests in tackles (123), sacks (5), pass breakups (18), and INTs (3). Three-down linebacker. Turns 32 in March.

52. Free safety Louis Delmas -- Cut by Lions in cap move. Has already visited Steelers, flirted with Falcons and Broncos. Poor man's Bob Sanders with chronic knee problems. Turns 27 in April.

53. Linebacker Jon Beason -- Has undergone wrist, shoulder, Achilles', and knee surgeries as a pro. Two procedures on shoulder and Achilles', and microfracture on knee. Traded from Carolina to Giants last October. Torched in pass coverage, but solid against run. G-Men want him back.

54. Wide receiver Golden Taint -- Stats deflated by Seattle's run-first scheme. Playmaker with ball in hands. Size limitations (5'10/202), miscast as No. 1 receiver with Seahawks. Ex-running back. Could surge statistically on team that gave him more run-after-catch chances. Turns 26 in August.

55. Wide Receiver Anquan Boldin -- Entering age-34 season. Does not separate but sticky hands and massive catch radius. Set five-year highs in receptions (85) and touchdowns (7) last year. 1,179 yards were Boldin's most since 2006. The 49ers' top priority to re-sign before free agency.

56. Cornerback Captain Munnerlyn -- Playmaking slot defender has four pick-sixes over last two seasons. 3.5 sacks in '13. Turns 26 in April. Best suited as complementary corner, not "No. 1."

57. Guard Chad Rinehart -- Once-failed Redskins third-round pick resurrected career in Buffalo and San Diego. Consistently effective pass blocker. Can play both guard positions. 29 in May.

58. Running back Ben Taint -- Has battled injuries for significant portions of 3-of-4 NFL seasons. Turns 26 in August. 4.73 YPC on 421 career carries. Downhill power runner who has improved in the passing game. Would be much more attractive if not for durability woes. Plus-starter talent.

59. Wide receiver James Jones -- Touchdowns dropped from 14 in 2012 to three despite only playing two fewer games. Did post career-high 817 yards. Strong, physical, well-built (6'1/208) receiver who can win 50-50 balls and runs well after the catch. Not an explosive playmaker. Has cut down dramatically on early-career drops. 30 in March. Seems very likely to leave Green Bay.

60. Inside linebacker D'Qwell Jackson -- Released by Browns to save cap space. Expected to interest Titans, Redskins. Played for new Tennessee DC Ray Horton in Cleveland last season. Entering age-31 campaign. Rangy three-down 'backer has always been more effective in 4-3 than 3-4 schemes. Suspect run defender.

61. Free safety Malcolm Jenkins -- Has experience at both safety spots, slot corner, and outside cornerback from Ohio State. Turned 26 in December. Enjoyed best NFL seasons under Gregg Williams in New Orleans. Williams is now defensive coordinator in St. Louis. Rams need a safety.

62. Guard Willie Colon -- Stock would be higher if not for Week 17 biceps tear. 31 in April. Long penalty prone. PFF's No. 4 pass-blocking guard in 2013, but 59th of 81 qualifiers as run blocker.

63. Defensive lineman Jonathan Babineaux -- Can play end and tackle. Has transitioned from early-career penetrator into primarily a run stopper. Career Falcon. Entering his age-33 season.

64. Tight end Jermichael Finley -- Would be much higher on this list if not for November spinal fusion surgery. Per agent, Finley is "99.9%" certain he'll be cleared to play football in 2014. Turns 27 in March. Elite tools but drop and error prone. Will be a boom-or-bust signing in free agency.

65. Quarterback Michael Vick -- Enough juice left to be high-end NFL spot starter, but definitely not for a full season. Turning 34. Turnover and injury prone. Sadly, this year's top free agent QB.

66. Guard Jon Asamoah -- 68th pick in 2010 draft. Benched for Geoff Schwartz late last year for unknown reasons. Was having a solid season. Turns 26 in July. Could be a nice value signing.

67. Guard Zane Beadles -- Beadles was much better in 2012 than he was last year. PFF's No. 51 guard among 81 qualifiers. Turned 27 in November. The Broncos seem unlikely to re-sign him.

68. Tight end Brandon Pettigrew -- Shaky hands. Post-up, checkdown-type pass catcher. Does not stretch seam. Career high in TDs is five (2011). Capable in-line blocker. Just turned 28.

69. Running back Rashad Jennings -- Capable starter with three-down tools. Has averaged 4.50 YPC or better in 3-of-4 NFL seasons. Plus pass catcher. Short-term fix. Turns 29 in March.

70. Running back Darren McFadden -- Ideal size-speed combination but no lateral agility or patience. Incredibly injury prone; has missed at least three games in each of six NFL seasons. Entering age-27 campaign. New Bengals OC Hue Jackson has great affinity for McFadden.

71. Defensive tackle Kevin Williams -- More plugger than pass rusher at this stage of his career. Career Viking. Turns 34 in August. Would be nice addition as rotational tackle on a contender.

72. Free safety Stevie Brown -- Had eight interceptions and two forced fumbles as an 11-game starter in 2012. Tore left ACL last preseason and missed entire season. Turns 27 this summer.

73. Right tackle Michael Oher -- Big name, smaller game. 23rd pick in 2009 draft has been sub-average starter throughout career. Right tackle only. 28 in May. Fully expected to leave Ravens.

74. Defensive tackle Alex Carrington -- Disruptive interior pocket pusher when healthy. Missed all but three games in '13 with torn left quad. 6'5/301. Scheme versatile. Could be free agent sleeper.

75. Center Evan Dietrich-Smith -- Replaced Jeff Saturday as Green Bay's starter down stretch of 2012 and started all 16 games in '13. Somewhat smallish pivot (6'2/300) best suited for zone scheme. Pro Football Focus' No. 8 center in '13. Turns 28 in July. Can only play one position.

76. Wide receiver Andre Roberts -- Lost starting job to Michael Floyd when Bruce Arians arrived in Arizona. Had best season in 2012 under Ken Whisenhunt (64-759-5). Poor man's Antonio Brown can play outside and slot. Just turned 26. Seems very likely to leave, pursuing more playing time.

77. Defensive tackle Pat Sims -- Effective run-stopping nose tackle at 6-foot-2, 330. Needs to leave field on most passing downs but has one-dimensional value. Sims turned 28 in November.

78. Linebacker/end Shaun Phillips -- Sack numbers are there (19.5 over last two seasons) but pass-rushing efficiency isn't. Can play in 3-4 or 4-3. Turns 33 in May. Broncos want him back.

79. Wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders -- Patriots signed him to restricted offer sheet last spring, but Steelers matched. Runs 4.40 but slightly built (5'11/186) and plays like it. Probably best suited as No. 3 receiver on a good team. Turns 27 in March. Not expected to be re-signed by Pittsburgh.

80. Defensive tackle Earl Mitchell -- Very active but undersized one-gap nose. Was stretched mightily as 3-4 anchor in Houston. Best suited for 4-3. 26 years old. Expected to leave Texans.

81. Defensive tackle Vance Walker -- Would be excellent third tackle in rotation. Not exceptional in any area but solid versus both run and pass. Turns 27 in April. Six sacks the past two seasons.

82. Running back Andre Brown -- Injury-prone grinder with average talent but plus pass-game chops. 4.09 YPC on 214 career carries. Giants should be able to re-sign Brown on the cheap.

83. Running back Knowshon Moreno -- Recent numbers grossly inflated by Peyton Manning but outstanding pass blocker and receiver. Just three fumbles (two lost) over last 36 games. Career 4.10 YPC. 27 in July. Gets-what's-blocked runner only. Not expected to be re-signed by Denver.

84. Running back Maurice Jones-Drew -- Career Jag will be allowed to test market. Lost wiggle and second gear in 2013, posting career-worst 3.43 YPC. 1,804 carries are fourth most among active running backs, behind Steven Jackson, Frank Gore, and Adrian Peterson. 29 in March.

85. Cornerback Corey Graham -- Functional left and slot corner. Best fit at nickel back. Always standout special teamer. Career highs in INTs (4) and pass breakups (12) in 2013. 29 in July.

86. Kicker Steven Hauschka -- Ranked second behind Matt Prater in 2013 field goal percentage (94.3) and eighth in touchbacks (48). Pro Bowl alternate. 29 in June. Sleeper for franchise tag.

87. Cornerback Chris Cook -- Injury prone dating back to Virginia and torched in coverage last season, but goes 6-foot-2, 212 with 4.45 wheels and just turned 27. Former 34th overall draft pick. Could be worthwhile rehab project for team that plays press man. Cook has never lacked talent.

88. Quarterback Josh McCown -- Made five starts for Bears in 2013, posting 3-2 record with career bests in completion rate (66.5%), TD-to-INT ratio (13:1), and 8.2 YPA. Journeyman "system" QB turns 35 in July. Says he wants to re-sign with Chicago, and feeling is mutual.

89. Kickoff returner Jacoby Jones -- Stretched too thin as front-line receiver, but difference maker on special teams and can contribute off bench as situational deep threat. Turns 30 in July. Ranked fourth in league in 2013 kick return average (28.8) and seventh on punt returns (12.5).

90. Strong safety Mike Mitchell -- Former Raiders second-round reach finally broke out with the Panthers in 2013, setting career highs in starts (14), tackles (66), sacks (3.5), pass breakups (8), interceptions (4), and forced fumbles (2). Turns 27 in June. Hard-hitting, 220-pound box safety.

91. Center Ryan Wendell -- Outstanding run blocker in 2012. Fell off a cliff last year, and Patriots have so far made no attempt to re-sign Wendell. 28 in March. 6'2/300. Can only play center.

92. Right tackle Breno Giacomini -- Right tackle only. Not much of an athlete. Brawler but oddly ineffective run blocker. Durability concerns. 28 years old. Seahawks are expected to let him walk.

93. Punter Pat McAfee -- Played 2013 under Colts franchise tag, but averages dipped across the board even if he was still very solid. Turns 27 in May. Indy has plenty of cap space to keep him.

94. Linebacker Wesley Woodyard -- Lost starting job to graying journeyman Paris Lenon down stretch last season. Never the same after Week 5 stinger injury. Undersized (6'0/229) and best suited as nickel 'backer. Can function at all three linebacker positions and play special teams.

95. Guard Brian Waters -- Still capable starter when healthy, but tore triceps seven games into last year and just turned 37. Only willing to play in state of Texas. Cowboys likely can't afford him.


96. Guard Richie Incognito -- Off-field issues well documented, but consistently solid starter on field. Can play all three interior line positions. 31 in July. Won't cost much because some NFL public relations departments will discourage teams from signing him. So could be value pickup.

97. Defensive end Tyson Jackson -- Disappointing former top-three pick can't rush passer but has developed into high-level run defender at 3-4 defensive end. 28 in June. No playmaking ability.

98. Center Jonathan Goodwin -- Contemplated retirement late last season, but intends to keep playing. 35 years old. Not expected to be re-signed by San Francisco, which will replace him from within with Daniel Kilgore. Goodwin was Pro Football Focus' No. 14 center in 2013. Hasn't missed a start since 2008.

99. Linebacker Arthur Moats -- Began NFL career as pass rusher. Started inside for Buffalo last season, defending run adequately before losing his job late in year. Best fit as versatile reserve and special teamer. Turns 26 next month. Could follow ex-Bills DC Mike Pettine to Cleveland.

100. Free safety Nate Allen -- Has had wildly up-and-down four-year career. Performed passably as 16-game starter in Philly last season. Only 26. Chiefs need safety help and he knows most of their coaching staff.

101. Defensive end Robert Ayers -- End/tackle tweener lacks explosive pass-rush skills. Strength is run defense. Turns 28 before next season. Would be nice addition as rotational role player.

102. Inside linebacker Perry Riley -- Reportedly seeking Dannell Ellerbe money (five years, $35 million). Isn't worth half that much. Has some playmaking ability, but consistently poor run defender despite big tackle stats. Turns 26 in May. Redskins want to re-sign Riley.

103. Defensive lineman Corey Wootton -- Forced to play out of position at defensive tackle due to injuries in Chicago last season. Much better fit at 4-3 left end, where Wootton tallied seven sacks as a seven-game starter in 2012. Underwent minor hip surgery in January. Turns 27 in June.

104. Defensive tackle Corey Peters -- Market would be much stronger if not for December tear of Achilles' tendon. Was having breakout contract year before injury. Turns 26 in June. Questionable for Week 1. Lowered price tag should make it easier for defense-needy Falcons to retain Peters.

105. Defensive lineman Tony McDaniel -- Plus-sized (6'7/305), run-stuffing interior role player. Just turned 29. Set career highs in starts (15) and tackles (53) as underrated piece of Seahawks' 2013 defensive line. Not much of a sack threat, but can push pocket. Checkered off-field history.

106. Quarterback Matt Cassel -- One of NFL's better backup quarterbacks. Went 3-3 in six starts with Vikings last season, completing 60.2% of throws with 11:9 TD-to-INT ratio. 32 in May. Opted out of $3.7 million in salary and bonuses to stay in Minnesota, so obviously targeting more than that on open market. Will not be pursued as a starter, even in a short-term "placeholder" role.

107. Running back Donald Brown -- 2009 first-round pick disappointed in first four NFL seasons before setting career highs across the board last year, outplaying Trent Richardson. 27 in April. Effective in pass game, but not a feature-type ball carrier. Best suited as lesser half of committee.

108. Punt returner Dexter McCluster -- Eighth in NFL in 2013 punt return average (11.8 yards), first in 20-plus-yard returns (11), and first in punt return TDs (2). Receptions have increased in each of his NFL seasons. 26 in August. Clearly not the dynamic playmaker he was billed to be coming out of Ole Miss, but an effective and versatile asset. A favorite of Chiefs coach Andy Reid.

109. Quarterback Josh Freeman -- Expected to reunite with old Bucs OC Greg Olson in Oakland, likely as short-term stopgap before draft pick takes over. Still only 26. Big arm with ideal size, but highly inaccurate and ten-cent head. Career 80:67 TD-to-INT ratio, 57.6% completion rate.

110. Running back LeGarrette Blount -- Two-down sledgehammer. Can tease "special" running ability when blocking gives him a head of steam, allowing Blount to shuck and carry tacklers. Career-high 5.05 YPC last season. Best employed in committee. Turned 27 in December.

111. Wide receiver Kenny Britt -- Injury-riddled knucklehead had abominable 2013 season in Tennessee, but will be worth a look as cheap, high-ceiling flier. Could greatly benefit from change of scenery. Still only 26. Was being compared to Calvin Johnson as recently as 2011.

112. Right tackle Austin Howard -- Has started 32 straight games for Jets. Run blocking slipped in '13, and always a deficient pass protector. 27 in March. Would be better off as swing tackle.

113. Wide receiver Sidney Rice -- Cut by Seattle to save cap room. Tore ACL on October 28. Still only 27, but incredibly injury prone throughout career. Did have excellent 2012 season, starting all 16 games and posting 50-748-7 line with just three drops. When healthy, outstanding hands and body control, though lacks ideal separation skills. Worth a cheap, one-year flier in free agency.

114. Kicker Phil Dawson -- Including playoffs, hit 39-of-43 field goals (90.7%) in '13. Just turned 39, so at least he's younger than Adam Vinatieri. Says he wants to re-sign with San Francisco.

115. Linebacker/end Mike Neal -- Intriguing scheme fit due to versatility. Has experience at 3-4 end, 4-3 defensive tackle, and outside 'backer. Made ten starts for Green Bay in '13, registering career highs in tackles (47) and sacks (5). Turns 27 in June. Will appeal to "hybrid" 3-4/4-3 teams.

116. Linebacker/end Anthony Spencer -- Had microfracture knee surgery in October. Turned 30 in January. Outstanding run stopper and plus pass rusher before injury. Should come cheap.

117. Defensive lineman Ziggy Hood -- Failed 2009 first-round pick. Has graded negatively in PFF ratings four straight seasons. Just turned 27. May generate some interest based on name value.

118. Wide receiver Brandon LaFell -- Has failed to reach 50 catches or 700 yards through four NFL seasons, last two as starter. Entering age-28 season. Eight drops in '13. Not a quality starter.

119. Inside linebacker Kavell Conner -- Run thumper when healthy, but durability a big concern. Eight missed games the past two years and fell out of favor with Colts coaches. Just turned 27.

120. Defensive back Terrell Thomas -- Three ACL tears dating back to USC. Missed all of 2011-12. Returned as Giants nickel back in 2013, performing adequately and appearing in 16-of-16 games. Former playmaking starter. Can play safety, outside corner, and slot. Just turned 29.

121. Defensive lineman Ryan Pickett -- "Big Grease" is entering his age-35 season. Space eater at 6'2/340. Just one sack since 2008. Could help contender as rotational two-down role player.

122. Defensive end Willie Young -- Made 15 starts at left end for Lions in '13, but managed three sacks and zero forced fumbles despite facing consistent single teams on highly talented line. Did grade out well across board in PFF ratings. Turns 29 in September. Undersized end at 6'4/251.

123. Right tackle Zach Strief -- Above-average starter in New Orleans past three seasons. Fine pass blocker. Some experience at left tackle. 31 in September. Saints won't overpay to keep him.

124. Cornerback Asante Samuel -- Falcons cap casualty. Turned 33 in January. Lost starting job to rookie Robert Alford down stretch last year. Increasingly injury prone; 13 missed games the past four seasons. Can only play off-zone coverage at left corner, limiting his market appeal.

125. Cornerback Jabari Greer -- Released in February 12 cap-saving move. Tore left ACL in mid-November. Just turned 32. Won't be viewed as starter by even most cornerback-needy teams.

126. Quarterback Shaun Hill -- Trusty backup has excelled in past spot starts. Favorite of new Cowboys OC Scott Linehan. Turned 34 in January. Limited arm. Career 41:23 TD-to-INT ratio.

127. Running back James Starks -- Not a dynamic back but did lead all 2013 rushers in YPC (5.54) among players with at least 80 attempts. More than functional in passing game. 28 years old, so likely Starks' last chance to compete for starting job. Figures to pursue more opportunity.

128. Quarterback Chad Henne -- Adequate arm strength but shaky accuracy, unathletic, and struggles to read coverage. Career 55:62 TD-to-INT ratio. 29 in July. Mid-range NFL backup.

129. Defensive end Brett Keisel -- Career Steeler turns 36 in September. Missed four games in '13 with plantar fasciitis. Not the run stuffer he once was. Maybe has one year left in the league.

130. Kicker Adam Vinatieri -- Nailed 35-of-40 field goals in '13. Has spent last eight years kicking indoors. Turned 41 in December. No longer a distance kicker and not enough leg to kick off.

131. Punter Donnie Jones -- Set Eagles franchise records in net punting average (40.4) and punts inside the 20-yard line (33) last season. Rugby-style punter. 34 in July. Likely to stay in Philly.

132. Cornerback Trumaine McBride -- Quietly a top-25 corner in Pro Football Focus' 2013 ratings; No. 13 in coverage. Undersized (5'9/185) 28-year-old journeyman. Built like a slot corner, but doesn't defend run well enough to play there full time and NFL teams will frown at his size outside.

133. Left tackle Charles Brown -- Saints 2010 second-round pick endured myriad early-career injuries. Opened 2013 as starting left tackle, but lost job to rookie Terron Armstead down stretch. Turns 27 in April. Could generate interest as a swing tackle, but won't be counted on as starter.

134. Running back Ahmad Bradshaw -- Turns 28 in March. Underwent neck surgery in 2013 and has history of chronic foot problems, but says he's 100%. Perhaps the off time did his feet some good. Career 4.59 YPC. Obviously not a long-term solution but makes plays whenever healthy.

135. Defensive lineman Ropati Pitoitua -- 6-foot-8, 315-pound five technique. Two-down player. Highly effective run stopper but offers zero as pass rusher. Turns 29 in April. Shouldn't cost much.

136. Defensive tackle Fred Evans -- One-dimensional run-stopping nose tackle or five technique. Three sacks in 95 career games. Experienced in both 3-4 and 4-3 fronts. Entering age-31 season.

137. Cornerback Will Blackmon -- Journeyman scrapheap signing resurrected career in Jaguars' press-man scheme, grading out as PFF's No. 22 cornerback in '13. Played left and slot corner in Jacksonville. Entering age-30 season. Very likely to be affordable. Jags would be smart to re-sign.

138. Outside linebacker Calvin Pace -- Coming off the quietest 10-sack season in recent memory. Entering age-34 campaign. Widely considered washed up in 2011-2012. Despite solid box-score numbers, inefficient pass rusher and so-so run defender. Jets shouldn't overpay to keep him.

139. Strong safety Major Wright -- Strong, playmaking starter 2011-2012 whose performance fell off a cliff in '13. Nine interceptions, three pick-sixes, and three forced fumbles the past three seasons. 26 in July. Will likely accept a one-year, "prove-it" deal in free agency to rehab stock.

140. Running back Rashard Mendenhall -- Battled numerous injuries en route to career-low 3.17 YPC average in 2013. Did score eight TDs as goal-line back. Cards coach Bruce Arians seems to love him, but no reason to believe anyone else would. Plodder at this stage. Turns 27 in June. There are some murmurs of Mendenhall contemplating retirement.

141. Cornerback Drayton Florence -- Has played for four NFL teams across 11 seasons. Turned 33 in December. Played nickel back for Panthers last year, entering at left corner in sub-packages with Captain Munnerlyn manning slot. Received positive coverage grade from Pro Football Focus.

142. Wide receiver Ted Ginn -- Arguably had career-best season (36-556-15.4-5) on offense with Panthers last year. Turns 29 in April. Ranked ninth in NFL in punt return average (12.2). Less effective on kick returns. Essentially a shorter Jacoby Jones with slightly less home-run ability.

143. Strong safety Charles Woodson -- Enjoyed quietly solid bounce-back year in Oakland after brutal 2012 in Green Bay. Still a ball stripper (three forced fumbles). Entering age-38 season. Can play both safety positions and slot corner in a pinch. Expected to finish career with Raiders.

144. Running back Anthony Dixon -- Michael Bush-type talent. Short-yardage back and special teamer in San Francisco. Entering age-27 season. Sleeper to win starting job in '14 camp battle.

145. Wide receiver Damian Williams -- Stats in annual decline. Injury plagued in 2012 and 2013, missing nine games. Best suited as No. 4 receiver who can back up all three wideout spots and contribute on special teams. 26 in May. Has not scored a touchdown since November of 2011.

146. Running back Toby Gerhart -- Averaged 7.9 YPC in 2013 but 3.4 on bigger sample size in 2012. 27 in March. Calling card is blitz-pickup chops. Hard-charging, fairly versatile backup type.

147. Wide receiver Jerricho Cotchery -- Steelers want him back. 32 in June. Career-high ten touchdowns in 2013 were an obvious fluke but has value as a reliable, chain-moving slot receiver.

148. Tight end Garrett Graham -- Runs 4.71 at 6-foot-3, 243 and ineffective blocker. Set career bests in catches (49), yards (545), and touchdowns (5) last season, starting 11 games in place of injured Owen Daniels. Turns 28 in August. Weak No. 2 tight end in increasingly two-tight NFL.

149. Quarterback Tarvaris Jackson -- Plus arm and athleticism. Poor accuracy. Career 39:35 TD-to-INT ratio. 31 in April. Seahawks likely want "T-Jack" back to tote clipboard for Russell Wilson.

150. Strong safety Bernard Pollard -- Box safety must be "hidden" by defensive scheme in passing situations. Striker in run game and over middle. Titans want Pollard back after strong season in run defense. Turned 29 in December.

Also Considered: QBs Colt McCoy, Matt Flynn; RBs La'Rod Stephens-Howling, Jonathan Dwyer, Phillip Tanner; FBs Greg Jones, Vonta Leach, John Kuhn; WRs Danario Alexander, Jerome Simpson, Jacoby Ford, Robert Meachem; TEs Brandon Myers, Fred Davis; OTs Bryant McKinnie, Ryan Harris, Jason Fox, Eric Winston; OGs Mike Johnson, Shawn Lauvao, Wade Smith; C Fernando Velasco; DEs Jeremy Mincey, Will Smith, Matt Shaughnessy; DTs Jay Ratliff, Mike Patterson, Terrence Cody, Johnny Jolly; LBs O'Brien Schofield, Jameel McClain, Rob Jackson, Erin Henderson, Jo-Lonn Dunbar; CBs Antoine Cason, Rashean Mathis, Josh Wilson, Tracy Porter; Ss James Ihedigbo, Roman Harper, Nick Collins, Ryan Clark, Usama Young.
 

jjab360

Legend
Joined
Jan 21, 2013
Messages
6,636
Wow, long list.

Anyway, what do you guys think about signing Geoff Schwartz if we can't get Saffold back? A lot of people mention Jon Asomoah in their mock offseasons, but Schwartz was actually the guy that replaced him midseason, and from what I understand was a noticeable improvement.
 

PhxRam

Guest
55. Wide Receiver Anquan Boldin -- Entering age-34 season. Does not separate but sticky hands and massive catch radius. Set five-year highs in receptions (85) and touchdowns (7) last year. 1,179 yards were Boldin's most since 2006. The 49ers' top priority to re-sign before free agency.

Seems like that dude is ALWAYS running free.