Thread For Our F/a Prospects

[ChrisW]

Jeremy White of WGR 550 Buffalo reports that the Bills are “unlikely” to use their franchise tag on free agent SJairus Byrd or reach an agreement on a log-term contract before the start of free agency.

• White adds that the two sides have had “productive discussions” in recent weeks, however, it appears likely that Byrd will be playing elsewhere next season.
• Joe Buscaglia also reports that Buffalo are unlikely to franchise Byrd.
  • Buscaglia adds that the Bills reportedly made Byrd a “substantial” offer.
  • As for a trade, Buscaglia mentions that trading a safety who is looking for a big contract “isn’t as easy as you might think.”
• Ian Rapoport reports that the Bills made Byrd an offer that would make him the highest paid safety for a period of the contract.
  • Rapoport adds that the Bills aren’t ruling out re-signing him during free agency.

The franchise tag would run the Bills $8.433 million fully guaranteed for the 2014 season.

Byrd will have no trouble finding interest on the open market given that a number of cap-rich teams are in need of safety help. The Eagles, Browns and Falcons have all been mentioned as speculative options for Byrd should be available.

Byrd, 27, is reportedly seeking a similar contract to that of Eric Weddle, who received a five-year, $40 million deal from the Chargers. Last year, Byrd totaled 48 tackles, 4 sacks, one interception and a forced fumble for the Bills defense. Pro Football Focus has Byrd rated as the No. 8 safety in the league last season.

 

[jjab360]

I'd give Byrd what Weddle got. He's a top 3 S in this league, imo, and we need a veteran at that position badly right now.

My back up plan would be Louis Delmas.

 

[ChrisW]

Jim Wyatt of the Tennessean reports that the Titans will not be using their franchise tag on CB Alterraun Verner.

Last week, Wyatt reported that there’s been “no real progress” between the Titans and Verner regarding a long-term extension, so it appears as though he’ll test the open market next week.

Franchising Verner would have cost the Titans $11.834 million fully guaranteed for the 2014 season.

Verner, 25, is in great position to secure a solid contract on the open market as he’s coming off of a Pro Bowl season for the Titans. He finished the year with 57 tackles, five interceptions including one for a touchdown, two fumble recoveries and 23 passes defensed.

 

[Prime Time]

Browns use transition tag on center Alex Mack
Posted by Darin Gantt on March 3, 2014

The new Browns administration obviously placed a higher value on center Alex Mack than the old one.

So much so, that they’re dusting off the seldom-used transition tag to keep him, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN.

The transition tag guarantees the average of the top 10-highest-paid players at his position, and for offensive linemen, that’s $10.039 million. The franchise tag would have cost $11.654 million.

It gives the Browns the right to match any offer Mack gets on the open market, but no compensation if he leaves.

It makes him an expensive rental, but would also help smooth the way for a new quarterback, by having an experienced man in the middle of the line.

 

[Alan]

$10 million for a center. Says quite a bit about the value teams are now putting on premium O-line players doesn't it.

 

[ChrisW]

That's a lot of moola for him. Kudos Alex Mack!

 

[ChrisW]

According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, the Browns decision to use their transition tag on C Alex Mack will most likely allow free agent SS T.J. Ward to reach the open market next week.

 

[ChrisW]

The Tennessee Titans did not use their franchise tag on free agent CB Alterraun Verner Monday, and it appears as though he will have an opportunity to test the open market next week.

Jim Wyatt reports that the Titans and Verner still “aren’t close” to reaching an agreement on a new contract.

The Titans do have another eight days to kick start negotiations. However, all indications are that Verner will be one of the most sought after players in this year’s free agent pool.

Verner, 25, is in great position to secure a solid contract on the open market as he’s coming off of a Pro Bowl season for the Titans. He finished the year with 57 tackles, five interceptions including one for a touchdown, two fumble recoveries and 23 passes defensed.

 

[Alan]

We don't need a SS but I would like to be able to compete for Verner AFTER we sign Saffold.

 

[ChrisW]

Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, citing a league source, reports that contract talks between the Rams and free agent OL Rodger Saffold are expected “intensify” this week.

• Florio adds “productive discussions” have occurred up to this point.

With this in mind, it appears as though a deal could be in place before the start of free agency next Tuesday.

Rams HC Jeff Fisher and GM Les Snead both mentioned during the Scouting Combine that re-signing Saffold was their top priority among the team’s impending free agents.

Saffold, 25, played left tackle for the Rams during his first few years in the league, but wound up playing both guard and right tackle after they signed Jake Long in free agency last year. Saffold has said that he would prefer to either play left tackle or right guard.

St. Louis reportedly believes Saffold is better suited at guard, so it will be interesting to see what kind of figures are being thrown around regarding an extension.

 

[Alan]

Thanks Chris. Good news on the Saffold front.

 

[Ramsey]

How much do you think Verner would cost the Rams?

 

[ChrisW]

How much do you think Verner would cost the Rams?

Probably about the same as Cortland's current contract.

 

[ChrisW]

The agent for Browns S T.J. Ward issued statement on Tuesday regarding his contract situation with the Browns.

“Detailed contract discussions with multiple front office executives of the Browns began last month at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis,” Josh Arnold said in a statement release, via The Akron Beacon Journal. ”Since then several conversations have occurred in an attempt to secure a new deal for TJ, but we’ve yet to agree on terms that work for both sides.

“T.J. has proven himself to be not only an elite NFL safety, but an elite and top NFL player league wide which is evidenced by him earning both All Pro and Pro Bowl recognition this past season. With the passing of the franchise/transition tag deadline, we remain open to further discussions with the Browns in working towards a long-term deal and look forward to that possibility. However, if things don’t work out in Cleveland, we likewise look forward to the opportunity that can coincide with becoming an unrestricted free agent. Several factors will be considered before making a final decision that will provide best for T.J. and his family.”

Ward, 27, looks to be in position to reach the open market and should be one of the most sought after players in this year’s free agent class.

With all the cap space available and a number of teams in need of safety help, Ward should easily be able to secure a top-ten contract for the safety position in next few weeks.

The Browns have more than enough money to retain Ward, but there has been some speculation that they could target Bills free agent S Jairus Byrd and allow Ward to sign elsewhere, but there hasn’t been any concrete reports suggesting that this is a strong option.

 

[RamBill]

Malcolm Jenkins Part of Deep Safety Group

By Tevin Broner

http://www.turfshowtimes.com/2014/3/4/5468492/2014-nfl-free-agents-malcolm-jenkins-safeties

Should the Rams take a chance on Malcolm Jenkins?

One of the St. Louis Rams' biggest needs is at the safety position. The Rams are solid at strong safety with T.J. McDonald, but at free safety, the Rams are very thin. They could decide to play Rodney McLeod there, but he's more suited for a reserve role. So could the Rams decide to sign a free agent safety, someone like Malcolm Jenkins?

Malcolm Jenkins hasn't been re-signed by the New Orleans Saints yet, and it appears the 26-year old will be heading to free agency. There's a link between Jenkins and the Rams; he played for current Rams defensive coordinator Gregg Williams for three years, from 2009 to 2011.

Now, don't let me lead you guys on; Jenkins isn't one of the best safeties available in free agency. But he would be an upgrade over what the Rams currently have. He could also play some nickel if the Rams needed. Jenkins finished the season with two forced fumbles, two interceptions and six pass deflections, to go with 68 tackles.

Here are some grades that Canal Street Chronicles (our Saints SBNation site) writer Andrew Juge, gave Jenkins in the last couple of games.

Vs. Panthers

B+ (2.73) He took a horrible angle on one Cam Newton scamper but otherwise he played well. He had a big hit on a quarterback sweep that dropped Newton for a loss and sent him airborne. Overall he was a very sound tackler and saved a couple first down runs from being massive gains as the last time of defense with his sure tackling. He was also good in coverage and had 9 tackles.

Vs. Eagles in the Wildcard

Malcolm Jenkins: C+ (2.33) He quietly had 3 tackles and made little impact on the game.

Vs. The Rams

D- (2.56) He had 4 tackles, including a shoe string tackle of Stacy early that was nice because it saved a touchdown. That saves him from the F, though, because otherwise this was a Spagnuolo era type game from Jenkins. He had two personal foul penalties, meaning he gained 30 yards for the Rams' offense all on his own, he missed tackles, he took horrific angles on the ball carrier numerous times and he was poor in coverage. Disaster game from him.

Why should the Rams sign Jenkins? He could be had on a friendly deal, for one thing. The Rams can still draft a safety in the NFL Draft in May to improve the talent level at the position and have a player to develop behind Jenkins. This would be one of those stop gap veterans who will help the young safeties learn more, start for the Rams and be an upgrade over what they have.

 

[RamBill]

Should the St. Louis Rams Be Interested In Brandon Browner?
By Brandon Bate

http://www.turfshowtimes.com/2014/3/5/5473186/st-louis-rams-free-agency-brandon-browner

Brandon Browner, the former Seattle Seahawks Cornerback, was officially reinstated to the NFL on Tuesday. Could he be a good fit for the St. Louis Rams?

It was just a few weeks ago that Brandon Browner’s agent/lawyer, Peter Schaffer, stated he would take action, if necessary, to get his client reinstated into the NFL. In an interview with Pro Football Talk, he was quite direct:

We will continue to exhaust all administrative remedies. If not successful, we will sue the living daylights out of the league.

It doesn’t appear he’ll have to go to those measures. On Tuesday afternoon, Browner received the news he’d waited months to hear. And whether or not Schaffer’s/Browner’s impending legal action had anything to do with the reinstatement, Browner will become an unrestricted free agent next Tuesday [March 11th].

Browner was suspended indefinitely on December 18, 2013 for violating the league’s substance abuse policy. After being sidelined for the remainder of the regular season, and then missing the opportunity to participate in the Super Bowl, it appears Browner is grateful for the opportunity, and is looking forward to turning to a new chapter in his NFL career:

I received wonderful news today. The NFL has reinstated me, and I now have the opportunity to prove to the fans and my teammates how important this sport is to me. I realize now more than ever that being part of the NFL is not a right, but a privilege. I am grateful that Commissioner Goodell and my agent were able to resolve this issue in a positive, productive manner so I can continue my career, provide for my family, and help my team win a Super Bowl. Thank you to all who have gone out of their way to show their support. I will live up to your expectations of me.

In regards to the Rams, it’s no secret that they’ll be needing to bolster their corps of cornerbacks - whether via free agency or the draft - prior to the onset of the 2014 regular season. With connections to Jeff Fisher’s former team, the Tennessee Titans, Alterraun Verner has been a popular name amongst free agent fits for the Rams. Browner now joins Verner, along with Vontae Davis, Aqib Talib, Charles Tillman, and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, as CB’s who will be highly sought after when free agency begins next week.

Browner, a Pro Bowl selection in 2011, is a physical, hard-hitting cornerback that could provide the type of attitude Rams’ defensive coordinator, Gregg Williams, is looking to field. The former "Legion of Boom" corner stands at 6’4" and clearly possesses the size to stifle large, physical wide receivers. And while not stellar when defending the run, his pass coverage skills could help the Rams defend against big pass plays; something they struggled with in 2013.

PFT also notes that it’s uncertain whether Browner’s reinstatement will be a "no strings attached" situation. He was previously suspended for the entirety of the 2014 season, so it remains to be seen whether or not there will be caveats to his reinstatement; i.e. a multi-game suspension. It will be something NFL teams will have to monitor, and strongly consider, prior to signing Browner. As of right now, he’s heading toward unrestricted free agency in less than a week, and can sign with the team of his choosing.

Browner, who will be 30 years old before the regular season kicks off, is one of many free agent corners who could peak the Rams interest. Jeff Fisher may not shy away from taking a player who can make an immediate, potentially drastic, upgrade at a position…even with the off-field issues. His familiarity with the Seahawks certainly doesn’t hurt matters.

A hard-hitting veteran, coming off of an indefinite NFL suspension, who could still potentially miss games in 2014 certainly doesn’t sound like the most ideal free agency acquisition. But if Browner is allowed to participate in all the offseason activities, and all 16 of the regular season games, his price tag - even on a one-year deal - might make him an intriguing fit for St. Louis.

 

[BonifayRam]

Heres who I would be very interested in signing.
Release now ORG Harvey Dahl 4 mil, Cortland Finnegan 4 mil & if Scott Wells 4.5 mil is beat out by Tim Barnes or Barrett Jones in TC & pre season

Here's the list
#1-OG Jon Asamoah formerly KC Chiefs No#1
#2-OG Rodger Saffold formerly STL Rams
#3-OLB Jo Lunn Dunbar formerly STL Rams
#4-Swing OT Chris Williams formerly STL Rams
#5-Center Tim Barnes formerly STL Rams

Release now ORG Harvey Dahl, Cortland Finnegan and if Scott Wells is beat out by Tim Barnes or Barrett Jones in TC & pre season

 

[ChrisW]

Veteran CB Cortland Finnegan announced via his Twitter account that the St. Louis Rams have released him.

• Adam Caplan mentions that Finnegan had a $3 million roster bonus was due on March 13.

Finnegan, 30, was entering the third year of his five-year, $50 million contract. that included $27 million guaranteed. He had a cap figure of $10 million for the 2014 season.

• Tom Pelissero mentions that the Rams will save $7 million in cap space with this move.

 

[ChrisW]

According to Jim Thomas of the St Louis Post-Dispatch, the Rams have tender offers to exclusive rights free agents C Tim Barnes, QB Austin Davis and WR Justin Veltung.

Barnes, 25, started four games in relief of C Scott Wells who was out with injury. He played 272 snaps last season and was rated as below average player by Pro Football Focus.

Davis, 24, signed with the Rams as an undrafted free agent out of Southern Mississippi. He later joined the Dolphins before returning to St. Louis last year. HC Jeff Fisher has said that they intend to take a look at him during training camp as a possibly No. 2 option to Sam Bradford.

Veltung, 22, was a practice squad player for the Rams. He was active for three games last season and saw just three snaps on special teams in 2014, according to Pro Football Focus.

 

[ChrisW]

According to ESPN’s Adam Caplan, “indications are that” the Rams will keep C Scott Wells for next season, despite rumors that he could be a cap casualty this offseason.

Wells, 33, has two years remaining on his four-year, $24 million contract that included $13 million guaranteed. He’ll make $5.5 million in each of the next two years to go along with cap figures of $6.5 million during this time.

• Releasing Wells would free up $4.5 million in cap space, according to OverTheCap.com.

Wells has played in just 19 of 32 games since he signed with the Rams back in 2012. He was rated as the No. 23 qualifying center in the league, according to Pro Football Focus last season.