Free Agents

[Cr122]

I'm only listing the free agent positions in the area of need or for depth, for the Cowboys. For example, OG, C, DT, DE, OLB,C, S



2011 Free Agency: Star rating is out of five. Age listing as of Sept. 1, 2011.

Logan Mankins, G, Patriots. Age: 29.
Franchised by Patriots

One of the top guards in the NFL, Logan Mankins specializes in run-blocking, but also does a great job in pass protection. The Patriots cannot allow him to get away.

Carl Nicks (RFA), G, Saints. Age: 26.
Tendered by Saints

One of the NFL's elite guards, Carl Nicks is a year away from landing a massive contract. He'll be tendered at the highest possible level this offseason.




Harvey Dahl, G, Falcons. Age: 30.
Arguably Atlanta's top offensive lineman, Harvey Dahl bounced back from an ankle injury that sidelined him for half the 2009 season. He's due for a big payday.

Justin Blalock, G, Falcons. Age: 27.
An unspectacular, but solid starting left guard, Justin Blalock doesn't have any weaknesses in his game.

Richie Incognito, G, Dolphins. Age: 28.
Re-signed with Dolphins (3 years)

Richie Incognito was Miami's best interior lineman this year. He has definitely turned his career around; he was once criticized for sitting out a 2008 game for a fake illness. Jim Haslett was so frustrated that he actually slapped a candy bar out of Incognito's hands on the sideline.

Kyle Kosier, G, Cowboys. Age: 32.
Kyle Kosier will turn 33 in November, but he did a very good job at left guard for the Cowboys this season after coming back from an early-season Achilles injury.




Chris Chester, G, Ravens. Age: 28.
Chris Chester didn't enjoy a good postseason, but otherwise had a pretty decent 2010 campaign.

Davin Joseph, G, Buccaneers. Age: 27.
A quality run-blocking guard, Davin Joseph had his season cut short because of a fractured foot.

Kyle DeVan (ERFA), G, Colts. Age: 26.
Kyle DeVan did a very good job in pass protection down the stretch, surrendering only one sack all year. However, he was heavily penalized.

Derrick Dockery, G, Redskins. Age: 30.
Derrick Dockery had a very solid 2009 campaign, but barely played last year because he didn't fit Mike Shanahan's zone-blocking scheme.

Robert Gallery, G, Raiders. Age: 31.
Robert Gallery is a talented guard, but can't stay healthy. He has missed 14 games in the past two seasons.

Mike Brisiel, G, Texans. Age: 28.
Mike Brisiel played pretty well for the Texans at right guard in 2010. The problem is that he has always been injury-prone throughout his career.

David Baas, G/C, 49ers. Age: 29.
David Baas should have been the team's left guard this year. However, he was forced into playing center in the wake of Eric Heitmann's season-long injury. This versatility can only help him in the open market.

Deuce Lutui, G, Cardinals. Age: 28.
Derek Anderson's laughing partner, Deuce Lutui and his drunken quarterback were probably making fun of their own ineptness this year. Lutui was much better in 2009, so let's give him a mulligan.




Evan Mathis, G, Bengals. Age: 29.
Evan Mathis is a talented guard, but can't stay healthy. Cedric Benson really missed him this season.

Mike Pollak, G, Colts. Age: 26.
A marginal guard who struggles in the run-blocking department.

Daryn Colledge, G, Packers. Age: 29.
Daryn Colledge can be upgraded, but the Packers could do worse at left guard.

Pork Chop Womack, G, Browns. Age: 32.
Pork Chop Womack has done an OK job at right guard for the Browns the past couple of years, but he can be upgraded.

Max Jean-Gilles, G, Eagles. Age: 27.
Nate Livings (RFA), G, Bengals. Age: 29.
Leroy Harris, G, Titans. Age: 27.
Trai Essex, G, Steelers. Age: 28.
Doug Legursky, G, Steelers. Age: 25.
Will Montgomery, G, Redskins. Age: 28.
Zach Hurd, G, Connecticut. Age: 22.
Chester Pitts, G, Seahawks. Age: 32.
Pat McQuistan, G, Dolphins. Age: 28.
Alan Faneca, G, Cardinals. Age: 34.
Nate Garner (RFA), G, Dolphins. Age: 26. -- Tendered by Dolphins
Nick Cole, G/C, Eagles. Age: 27.
John Greco, G, Rams. Age: 26. -- Tendered by Rams
Adam Goldberg, G, Rams. Age: 31.
Tony Wragge, G, 49ers. Age: 32.
Kevin Boothe, G, Giants. Age: 28.
Reggie Wells, G, Eagles. Age: 30.
Daniel Loper, G, Raiders. Age: 29. -- Re-signed with Raiders (2 years, $4.2 million)
Steve Vallos, G, Browns. Age: 27.
Kasey Studdard, G, Texans. Age: 27.
Bryan Mattison, G, Ravens. Age: 27.

 

[Cr122]

Centers

2011 Free Agency: Star rating is out of five. Age listing as of Sept. 1, 2011.

Ryan Kalil, C, Panthers. Age: 25.
Franchised by Panthers

If the Panthers don't franchise Ryan Kalil, teams will be lining up to sign one of the top centers in the NFL.

Olin Kreutz, C, Bears. Age: 34.
It's not saying much, but Olin Kreutz was Chicago's best pass-protector in 2010. He's a declining player at this stage of his career, but he just doesn't miss any games; Kreutz made his 129th consecutive start in the season finale.




Lyle Sendlein, C, Cardinals. Age: 27.
Arizona's best offensive lineman, Lyle Sendlein hasn't missed a start in three years. He needs to be re-signed.

Kyle Cook (RFA), C, Bengals. Age: 28.
Kyle Cook has been a solid, dependable starting center for the Bengals the past two years. He deserves an extension.

Jonathan Goodwin, C, Saints. Age: 32.
A serviceable starting center, Jonathan Goodwin still has a couple of quality seasons left in the tank.

Chris Spencer, C, Seahawks. Age: 29.
The injury-prone Chris Spencer had a rocky start to his 2010 campaign, but improved toward the end of the season.

Samson Satele, C, Raiders. Age: 26.
Samson Satele has done a decent job as Oakland's starting center the past two years after struggling in Miami.

Scott Mruczkowski, C, Chargers. Age: 29.
Scott Mruczkowski barely played this season, but filled in really well for an injured Nick Hardwick the year before.




Casey Wiegmann, C, Chiefs. Age: 38.
Casey Wiegmann is a very reliable center who doesn't miss any games. At 38, however, his best days are far behind him.

Kris O'Dowd, C, USC. Age: 23.
Jake Kirkpatrick, C, TCU. Age: 24.
Tim Barnes, C, Missouri. Age: 23.
Alex Linnenkohl, C, Oregon State. Age: 23.
Jason Spitz, C, Packers. Age: 28.
Rudy Niswanger, C, Chiefs. Age: 28.
Dylan Gandy, C, Lions. Age: 29.
Robert Turner (RFA), C, Jets. Age: 27.
Ben Claxton, C, Cardinals. Age: 31.

 

[Cr122]

Defensive Ends

2011 NFL Free Agency: Star rating is out of five. Age listing as of Sept. 1, 2011.

Tamba Hali, DE/OLB, Chiefs. Age: 27.
Franchised by Chiefs

I'll never understand how Tamba Hali didn't make the Pro Bowl this year. A monstrous pass-rusher, he registered 14.5 sacks. Capable of playing in any defense, Hali is going to make a ton of money this offseason.

Ray Edwards, DE, Vikings. Age: 26.
Ray Edwards had a tremendous year, registering eight sacks and shutting down the run on his side. The question remains: How will he fare without the opposition keying in on Jared Allen and Kevin Williams?

Mathias Kiwanuka, DE, Giants. Age: 28.
Mathias Kiwanuka looked like he was going to have a monstrous season, racking up four sacks in the first three weeks. Unfortunately, he landed on injured reserve with a season-ending neck injury.




Shaun Ellis, DE/DT, Jets. Age: 34.
Shaun Ellis terrorized Tom Brady in the divisional round of the playoffs. He had a great year, but the concern is his age (34 in June).

Charles Johnson, DE, Panthers. Age: 25.
One of the top young defensive free agents on the market, Charles Johnson became the fifth Panther ever to record double-digit sacks (12) in 2010. He was dominant from the left end position all year. Carolina cannot afford to let him go.

Cliff Avril (RFA), DE, Lions. Age: 25.
Tendered by Lions (1st, 3rd)

Cliff Avril is a tremendous pass-rusher - 8.5 sacks in 13 games - but he's a liability against the run.

Jason Babin, DE, Titans. Age: 31.
Jason Babin recorded 12.5 sacks in 2010. However, his previous high was five sacks back in 2006. Is he just a one-hit wonder?




Andre Carter, DE, Redskins. Age: 32.
One of the many reasons the Redskins sucked this season was because they couldn't get any pressure on the quarterback. Why couldn't they do so? Andre Carter's conversion from 4-3 end to 3-4 rush linebacker failed. Carter, who had 11 sacks in 2009, will thrive elsewhere.

Raheem Brock, DE, Seahawks. Age: 33.
Raheem Brock was arrested for a DUI in early November. After that, he went on a tirade, recording eight sacks in the team's final seven games. Where did that come from? I'm not sure, but Brock turns 33 in June, so it's unlikely that he'll be able to continue this level of play for long.

Vernon Gholston, DE, Jets. Age: 25.
Vernon Gholston was a huge bust for the Jets as the No. 6 overall pick in the 2008 NFL Draft. I'm listing him at 2.5 stars, however, for three reasons. First, Gholston is only 25, and has a ton of upside and athleticism. Second, I'd like to see what Gholston can do in a traditional 4-3. And third, defensive ends usually take a while to transition to the NFL. Granted, Gholston has shown nothing, but there's a slim chance he could be a very late bloomer. He's worth the risk.

Phillip Hunt, DE/OLB, CFL. Age: 23.
Signed with Eagles

Phillip Hunt led the CFL in sacks with 16 last year. The last CFL pass-rusher to come into the NFL was Cameron Wake, but as far as this signing goes, the Eagles should be happy with half of Wake's production from Hunt.

Wallace Gilberry (RFA), DE, Chiefs. Age: 26.
Tendered by Chiefs (2nd round)

Wallace Gilberry was great as a third-down pass-rusher, recording seven sacks in 2010. He's a poor fit for the 3-4, however, and could see much more action if he moves to a team running the 4-3.



Dave Ball, DE, Titans. Age: 30.
A situational pass-rusher, Dave Ball had seven sacks this season.

Travis LaBoy, DE/OLB, 49ers. Age: 30.
A situational pass-rusher, Travis LaBoy recorded five sacks in 13 full games this season.

Jayme Mitchell, DE, Browns. Age: 27.
The Browns traded a late-round pick for Jayme Mitchell, but never used him. Nice going, Holmgren. Mitchell is a talented player who could produce in a 4-3.

Ray McDonald, DE, 49ers. Age: 26.
Ray McDonald does a good job as San Francisco's third-down specialist on the defensive line. However, the 49ers will ideally find an every-down player to supplant the platoon of McDonald and Isaac Sopoaga.

Marcus Benard (ERFA), DE/OLB, Browns. Age: 26.
Marcus Benard is a pass-rushing specialist who had 7.5 sacks in 2010. He'll be tendered.

Turk McBride, DE, Lions. Age: 30.
A decent rotational lineman for the Lions, Turk McBride recorded five sacks in 2010.

Jacob Ford (RFA), DE, Titans. Age: 28.
Brian Robison, DE, Vikings. Age: 28. -- Re-signed with Vikings (3 years, $14.1 million)
Ugo Chinasa, DE/OLB, Oklahoma State. Age: 23.
Pierre Allen, DE, Nebraska. Age: 23.
Steven Friday, DE/OLB, Virginia Tech. Age: N/A.
Mark Anderson, DE, Texans. Age: 28.
Stylez G. White, DE, Buccaneers. Age: 32.
Dave Tollefson, DE, Giants. Age: 29.
Ryan Winterswyk, Boise State. Age: 24.
C.J. Ah You (RFA), DE, Rams. Age: 29. -- Tendered by Rams
Demetric Evans, DE, 49ers. Age: 32.
Jarvis Moss, DE/OLB, Raiders. Age: 27.
Jeff Charleston, DE, Saints. Age: 28.
Keyunta Dawson, DE, Colts. Age: 25.
Tim Crowder, DE, Buccaneers. Age: 26.
Michael Bennett (RFA), DE, Buccaneers. Age: 25.
Jimmy Wilkerson, DE, Saints. Age: 30.
Kenny Iwebema (RFA), DE, Cardinals. Age: 26.
Jonathan Fanene, DE/DT, Bengals. Age: 29.
Jared DeVries, DE, Lions. Age: 35.
Victor Abiamiri, DE, Eagles. Age: 25.
Tim Bulman, DE, Texans. Age: 28.
Copeland Bryan, DE, Lions. Age: 28.

 

[LAZARUS_LOGAN]

I don't think Center or DT is an area of need. For the guards, the only player I think the Cowboys should pursue if Blalock.

 

[Cr122]

Defensive Tackles

2011 NFL Free Agency: Star rating is out of five. Age listing as of Sept. 1, 2011.

Haloti Ngata, DT, Ravens. Age: 27.
Franchised by Ravens

Haloti Ngata is one of the top interior defensive linemen in the NFL. If the Ravens don't want to pay him top dollar, pretty much every other team in the NFL will be lining up for his services.




Paul Soliai, NT, Dolphins. Age: 27.
Franchised by Dolphins

At 6-4, 355 pounds, Paul Soliai is a monstrous, run-stuffing nose tackle. Unless the Dolphins franchise him, Soliai will get a huge contract this offseason.

Barry Cofield, DT, Giants. Age: 27.
Barry Cofield is a great interior lineman who excels against the run and provides a decent enough pass rush. He's due for a big contract this offseason.

Brandon Mebane, DT, Seahawks. Age: 26.
Brandon Mebane has always been great against the run; this year, he added some pass-rushing skills to his repertoire, allowing him to serve as an every-down player in Seattle's defense.

Cullen Jenkins, DE/DT, Packers. Age: 30.
Cullen Jenkins dominates the line of scrimmage when he's on the field. Unfortunately, Jenkins is often injured; he has missed 17 games in the past three years.

Aubrayo Franklin, NT, 49ers. Age: 31.
Aubrayo Franklin is coming off great back-to-back years - but he's never played this well when not in a contract season. As I wrote last year, caveat emptor.




Richard Seymour, DT, Raiders. Age: 31.
Re-signed with Raiders (2 years, $30 million)

And to think, the Raiders could have the No. 17 overall pick right now... Richard Seymour is obviously a very skilled defensive lineman, but age and post-contract lethargy have to be concerns.

Stephen Bowen, DE/DT, Cowboys. Age: 27.
Stephen Bowen took over for an injured Marcus Spears in the middle of the season and played very well down the stretch.

Mike Patterson, DT, Eagles. Age: 28.
Mike Patterson doesn't provide much of a pass rush, but he's an excellent run defender. He's a 4-3 player only. There's some dispute about whether Patterson is a free agent or not. A Washington Post salary cap expert believes Patterson will become a free agent if no CBA is met by March 4.

Shaun Smith, DE/DT, Chiefs. Age: 30.
Shaun Smith turns 30 in August, but he's still a strong two-down, run-stuffing defensive end in the 3-4.

Pat Williams, NT, Vikings. Age: 38.
A two-down run-stuffer, Pat Williams still got it done this season despite playing at 38 years old. He'll try to help a contender.

Marcus Spears, DE/DT, Cowboys. Age: 28.
When motivated, Marcus Spears is a force against the run. He offers no pass rush, however.

Justin Bannan, DE/DT, Broncos. Age: 32.
Justin Bannan had a solid year for the Broncos, which makes you wonder why they released him. Bannan can play in both the 4-3 and 3-4.

Anthony Adams, DT, Bears. Age: 31.
Anthony Adams had a slightly down year by his standards, but the Bears are still working to extend the run-stuffer.

John Henderson, DT, Raiders. Age: 32.
Re-signed with Raiders (2 years, $8 million)

John Henderson missed a ton of action this season with a foot injury, but was a very forceful run-stuffer when he was in the lineup.

Ron Edwards, NT, Chiefs. Age: 32.
Ron Edwards did a decent job of stuffing the run early in the season, but seemed to wear down as the season progressed.

Kenyon Coleman, DE/DT, Browns. Age: 32.
Kenyon Coleman doesn't offer much of a pass rush (3 sacks in 2010), but he's a very good run defender as a 3-4 defensive end.

Shaun Rogers, DT, Browns. Age: 32.
Signed with Saints (1 year, $4 million)

Shaun Rogers was dumped by the Browns because of his $6 million salary, but he should still be OK as a two-down run-stuffer.



Tommie Harris, DT, Bears. Age: 28.
Tommie Harris is a shell of what he used to be. He's battled through way too many injuries. There's a chance he'll be able to bounce back and become a solid player once again, but I wouldn't bet on it.

Kris Jenkins, NT, Jets. Age: 32.
Coming off a pair of torn ACLs, Kris Jenkins has played in just seven games the past two years.

Alan Branch, DT, Cardinals. Age: 26.
Alan Branch offers nothing in terms of a pass rush, but can stuff the run effectively when he's motivated.

Tony McDaniel, DE/DT, Dolphins. Age: 26.
Tony McDaniel was a solid rotational defensive lineman for the Dolphins in 2010, thriving against the run and recording 2.5 sacks.

Desmond Bryant (ERFA), DT, Raiders. Age: 25.
A pass-rushing specialist, Desmond Bryant terrorized Matt Cassel in the season finale in what was his only extensive action of the season. I'd like to see him play more next year. That will happen if Richard Seymour leaves.

Remi Ayodele, DT, Saints. Age: 28.
Remi Ayodele plays the run somewhat well, but offers absolutely no pass rush.

Antonio Johnson, DT, Colts. Age: 26.
Antonio Johnson has some upside as a 310-pound defensive tackle with pass-rushing ability. He played well at times this past season after a horrible 2009 campaign.

Marcus Stroud, DT, Bills. Age: 33.
Signed with Patriots (2 years)

Marcus Stroud struggled in Buffalo's 3-4. He'll be better in a 4-3, but at 33, his skills have eroded.

Jamal Williams, NT, Broncos. Age: 35.
Jamal Williams had a decent year as a two-down run-stuffer in 2010. He turns 35 in April, however.

Robaire Smith, DE/DT, Browns. Age: 33.
Robaire Smith played well last year until landing on IR with a back injury. Signing a 33-year-old with back problems will be a risky proposition for any team.

Gerard Warren, DT, Patriots. Age: 33.
Gerard Warren tried his best to fill in for Ty Warren, but he's nothing more than a rotational player at this point in his career.

Daniel Muir, DT, Colts. Age: 27.
Derek Landri, DT, Panthers. Age: 27.
Anthony Hargrove, DT, Saints. Age: 28.
Jacques Cesaire, DE/DT, Chargers. Age: 31.
Jason Hatcher, DE/DT, Cowboys. Age: 29.
Shaun Cody, NT, Texans. Age: 28. -- Re-signed with Texans
Gary Gibson, DT, Rams. Age: 29.
Ronald Fields, NT, Broncos. Age: 29.
Marcus Thomas, DE/DT, Broncos. Age: 25.
Ian Williams, NT, Notre Dame. Age: 21.
Cedric Thornton, DE/DT, Southern Arkansas. Age: N/A.
Martin Parker, DT, Richmond. Age: 23.
Nick Eason, DE/DT, Steelers. Age: 31.
Chris Hoke, NT, Steelers. Age: 35.
Junior Siavii, DT, Seahawks. Age: 32.
Eric Foster, DT, Colts. Age: 26. -- Tendered by Colts
Travis Johnson, DE/DT, Chargers. Age: 29.
Fred Evans, DT, Vikings. Age: 27.
Vance Walker, DT, Falcons. Age: 24.
Clifton Ryan, DT, Rams. Age: 27.
Trevor Pryce, DE/DT, Jets. Age: 36.
Nick Hayden (RFA), DT, Panthers. Age: 25.
Jarvis Green, DE/DT, Texans. Age: 32.
Andre Fluellen (RFA), DT, Lions. Age: 26. -- Tendered by Lions
Leger Douzable (RFA), DT, Jaguars. Age: 25.
Brian Schaefering, DE/DT, Browns. Age: 28.
Derreck Robinson, DE/DT, Browns. Age: 29.
Bryan Robinson, DT, Cardinals. Age: 37.
Gabe Watson, DT, Cardinals. Age: 27.
Marques Douglas, DE/DT, Titans. Age: 34.
Trey Lewis, DT, Falcons. Age: 26. -- Re-signed with Falcons
Lamar Divens, NT, Ravens. Age: 25. -- Re-signed with Ravens
John McCargo, DT, Bills. Age: 28.
Ed Johnson, DT, Panthers. Age: 27.
Kelly Talavou, NT, Ravens. Age: 26.
DeMario Pressley, DT, Texans. Age: 25. -- Signed with Colts

 

[Cr122]

Outside Linebacker


2011 NFL Free Agency: Star rating is out of five. Age listing as of Sept. 1, 2011.

LaMarr Woodley, DE/OLB, Steelers. Age: 26.
Franchised by Steelers

One of the top pass-rushers in the NFL, LaMarr Woodley has 35 sacks in the past three years.

Chad Greenway, OLB, Vikings. Age: 28.
Franchised by Vikings

One of the top outside linebackers in the NFL, Chad Greenway could be franchised this offseason. If not - Sidney Rice is Minnesota's other option - Greenway is going to receive a huge contract from someone.




Kamerion Wimbley, DE/OLB, Raiders. Age: 27.
Franchised by Raiders

Moving from strongside linebacker to defensive end depending on the situation, Kamerion Wimbley totaled 9.5 sacks and really helped shut down the run.

Manny Lawson, OLB, 49ers. Age: 27.
Manny Lawson isn't the greatest pass-rusher in the world, but he does so many other things very well. Moving on to a team with a 4-3 defense might be ideal for the former first-rounder.

Rocky McIntosh, OLB, Redskins. Age: 28.
A decent weakside linebacker in the 4-3, Rocky McIntosh was one of many Redskins who were lost in the new 3-4 look. McIntosh will have more success next year as long as he stays away from teams running the 3-4.

James Anderson, OLB, Panthers. Age: 27.
James Anderson had a very good year at strongside linebacker, recording 130 tackles and 3.5 sacks.

Stephen Nicholas, OLB, Falcons. Age: 28.
Stephen Nicholas took over the starting strongside linebacker job in Week 4 and never looked back. He performed very well playing two downs for Atlanta.

Quincy Black, OLB, Buccaneers. Age: 27.
Quincy Black did a great job as Tampa Bay's two-down strongside linebacker in 2010. He missed the final few weeks with a fractured forearm, which is no big deal.

Matt Roth, DE/OLB, Browns. Age: 28.
I'm not sure if Math Roth was hurt or not down the stretch, but he struggled late in the year after starting out really well.

Ben Leber, OLB, Vikings. Age: 32.
Ben Leber can still start as a weakside linebacker, but at 32, his best days are behind him.




Clint Session, OLB, Colts. Age: 26.
The Colts missed Clint Session last year; he played in only five games because of an elbow injury.

Thomas Davis, OLB, Panthers. Age: 27.
Thomas Davis was a 3.5-star linebacker last offseason, but there's major risk here; Davis has torn his right ACL twice in the past two years.

Justin Durant, OLB, Jaguars. Age: 25.
Justin Durant is a quality weakside linebacker, but is frequently injured.

Thomas Howard, OLB, Raiders. Age: 28.
Thomas Howard was the odd man out in a very talented linebacking corps. Despite rotting on Oakland's bench in 2010, he could start for a new team at weakside linebacker next year.

David Vobora (RFA), OLB, Rams. Age: 25.
Tendered by Rams (original pick)

David Vobora started the final four games of the season at strongside linebacker and predictably played well. I have no idea why Vobora didn't start all year.




Pisa Tinoisamoa, OLB, Bears. Age: 30.
Pisa Tinoisamoa missed some time with a knee scope, but otherwise had a pretty solid year as Chicago's two-down strongside linebacker.

Wesley Woodyard (RFA), OLB, Broncos. Age: 25.
Tendered by Broncos

Wesley Woodyard played well in Mike Shanahan's 4-3 back in 2008, but was lost in Josh McDaniels' 3-4 ever since. I'd like to see him get a chance with a Tampa-2 defense next year.

Keith Bulluck, OLB, Giants. Age: 34.
Keith Bulluck bounced back from his knee injury and played well for the Giants this season. However, he's an aging 34-year-old, two-down linebacker at this point in his career.

Danny Clark, OLB, Saints. Age: 34.
Danny Clark was picked up in early September after being cut by the Texans. He didn't see much action early, but ended up starting and playing well for the Saints at strongside linebacker.

Mike Peterson, OLB, Falcons. Age: 35.
Mike Peterson did a decent job for the Falcons last year at weakside linebacker, but he'll turn 35 in June.

Brandon Johnson, OLB, Bengals. Age: 28.
A very good reserve linebacker who can play multiple positions (primarily the weak side).

Leroy Hill, OLB, Seahawks. Age: 28.
Leroy Hill played really well for Seattle in 2009, but missed all of last year with an Achilles injury. He also got into trouble for marijuana and domestic issues.

Antwan Barnes, DE/OLB, Chargers. Age: 26.
Antwan Barnes was signed in October and did a great job as a situational pass-rusher.

Nick Roach, OLB, Bears. Age: 26.
JoLonn Dunbar (RFA), OLB, Saints. Age: 26.
Jamar Williams, OLB, Panthers. Age: 27.
Brian Iwuh, OLB, Bears. Age: 27.
Adam Hayward, OLB, Buccaneers. Age: 27.
Ernie Sims, OLB, Eagles. Age: 26.
Zach Diles, OLB, Texans. Age: 26.
Tyjuan Hagler, OLB, Colts. Age: 29.
Rashad Jeanty, OLB, Bengals. Age: 28. -- Signed with Eagles
Julian Peterson, OLB, Lions. Age: 33.
Landon Johnson, OLB, Lions. Age: 30.
Scott Shanle, OLB, Saints. Age: 31.
Antwan Applewhite, DE/OLB, Chargers. Age: 25. -- Tendered by Chargers
Chris Chamberlain (RFA), OLB, Rams. Age: 25. -- Tendered by Rams (original pick)
Keith Ellison, OLB, Bills. Age: 27.
Ashlee Palmer, OLB, Lions. Age: 25.
Bobby Carpenter, OLB, Lions. Age: 28.
Akeem Jordan, OLB, Eagles. Age: 26.
David Bowens, DE/OLB, Browns. Age: 34.
Mike Vrabel, DE/OLB, Chiefs. Age: 36.
Quentin Moses, DE/OLB, Dolphins. Age: 27.
Will Herring, OLB, Seahawks. Age: 28.
Zack Follett (ERFA), OLB, Lions. Age: 24. -- Tendered by Lions
Titus Brown (RFA), DE/OLB, Browns. Age: 25.
Chris Wilson, DE/OLB, Redskins. Age: 29.
Larry Grant (RFA), OLB, Rams. Age: 26. -- Tendered by Rams
Ricky Brown, OLB, Raiders. Age: 27.
David Thornton, OLB, Titans. Age: 32.
Tim Shaw (RFA), OLB, Titans. Age: 27.
Caleb Campbell (ERFA), OLB, Lions. Age: 26.
Colin Allred, OLB, Titans. Age: 28.
Sam Williams, OLB, Raiders. Age: 31.
Prescott Burgess, OLB, Ravens. Age: 27.
Jamaal Westerman, DE/OLB, Jets. Age: 26.
Jordan Senn (RFA), OLB, Panthers. Age: 27. -- Tendered by Panthers
Bryan Smith, DE/OLB, Jaguars. Age: 27.
James Holt (ERFA), OLB, Chargers. Age: 24. -- Tendered by Chargers
Jon Alston, OLB, Buccaneers. Age: 28.
Lance Laury, OLB, Jets. Age: 29.
Darnell Bing, OLB, Texans. Age: 26.
Matt McCoy, OLB, Seahawks. Age: 28.

 

[Cr122]

Safeties


2011 NFL Free Agency: Star rating is out of five. Age listing as of Sept. 1, 2011.

Eric Weddle, S, Chargers. Age: 26.
Eric Weddle is due for a massive contract. Excluding Ed Reed and Troy Polamalu, Weddle might be the best safety in the NFL (though Nick Collins may have something to say about that).




Dawan Landry, SS, Ravens. Age: 28.
Already a terrific run-support safety, Dawan Landry improved his coverage skills this past season.

Danieal Manning, SS, Bears. Age: 29.
In addition to being a solid strong safety, Danieal Manning averaged 24.7 yards on his kickoff returns this year.

O.J. Atogwe, FS, Rams. Age: 30.
Signed with Redskins (5 years, $26 million)

Despite being 30 years old, O.J. Atogwe is still one of the better free safeties in the NFL. He's solid in coverage and excels as a blitzer.

Quintin Mikell, SS, Eagles. Age: 30.
A Pro Bowler who excels both in both run support and pass coverage, Quintin Mikell will be offered a big contract this offseason.

Michael Huff, S, Raiders. Age: 28.
Michael Huff was torched in the opener against Tennessee, but bounced back to have an incredible season.




Gerald Sensabaugh, SS, Cowboys. Age: 28.
Gerald Sensabaugh was Dallas' best defensive back in 2010. That's not saying much, of course, but Sensabaugh's a pretty solid player.

Bob Sanders, SS, Colts. Age: 30.
Signed with Chargers (1 year)

Despite being 30 years old and coming off multiple injuries, Bob Sanders is a 4-star talent. The problem is that he has 1-star durability. I just averaged the two together to get 2.5 stars. Sanders is a huge risk, but he's worth taking a chance on at the right price.

Donte Whitner, SS, Bills. Age: 26.
Donte Whitner plays well against the run, but tends to struggle in coverage - though he did improve slightly in that department as the 2010 season progressed.

Dashon Goldson, FS, 49ers. Age: 26.
Dashon Goldson really struggled at times in 2010, but that might be because he played through so many injuries. Coming off a down year, Goldson could be a bargain in free agency.

George Wilson, S, Bills. Age: 30.
Re-signed with Bills (3 years)

George Wilson had the misfortune of playing behind Jairus Byrd this year. Wilson is a talented safety who could start for numerous teams. He needs to get out of Buffalo.

Roman Harper, SS, Saints. Age: 28.
This may seem like too many stars for a guy who was torched in a playoff loss, but Roman Harper was playing out of position with Malcolm Jenkins injured. Harper had a solid season otherwise (except for the instance when Sam Bradford chased him down following a turnover.)

Brodney Pool, S, Jets. Age: 27.
Brodney Pool has a dubious history of concussions, but he has proven to be a solid player for the Jets at both safety positions this season.

Atari Bigby, SS, Packers. Age: 29.
Atari Bigby is an above-average safety who always seems to be hurt.

Melvin Bullitt, SS, Colts. Age: 26.
The Colts lost Melvin Bullitt to a season-ending shoulder injury in early October. He's a marginal strong safety.




Tom Zbikowski, S, Ravens. Age: 26.
Tom Zbikowski did a decent job filling in for Ed Reed before suffering an injury of his own (back).

Bernard Pollard, SS, Texans. Age: 26.
Bernard Pollard is a tremendous run-stuffer, but really struggles in coverage at times.

Abram Elam, SS, Browns. Age: 26.
Abram Elam had his moments - particularly against Jacksonville - but struggled at times this past season, mainly in run support.

Husain Abdullah (RFA), S, Vikings. Age: 26.
Tendered by Vikings

Husain Abdullah did an OK job at strong safety this season. He's still a liability in coverage, however.

Courtney Greene (ERFA), SS, Jaguars. Age: 24.
Courtney Greene plays the run well as an in-the-box strong safety, but really struggles in coverage.

DeAndre McDaniel, S, Clemson. Age: 23.
DeAndre McDaniel would have been drafted if it weren't for character concerns.

Paul Oliver, SS, Chargers. Age: 27.
Paul Oliver performed very well while filling in for Steve Gregory at strong safety this season.

Roy Williams, SS, Bengals. Age: 31.
Roy Williams is more valuable to the Bengals than he would be to anyone else; he's a good fit in Mike Zimmer's defense.

Corey Lynch (RFA), FS, Buccaneers. Age: 26.
Despite being the team's third-string free safety, Corey Lynch did an admirable job filling in for Tanard Jackson and Cody Grimm at the end of the year.

Charlie Peprah, SS, Packers. Age: 28. -- Re-signed with Packers (2 years, $2.3 million)
Chinedum Ndukwe, S, Bengals. Age: 26.
Deunta Williams, FS, North Carolina. Age: 23.
Eric Smith, SS, Jets. Age: 28.
Jordan "Big Drop Babs" Babineaux, S, Seahawks. Age: 29.
Darren Sharper, FS, Saints. Age: 35.
Reed Doughty, S, Redskins. Age: 28.
Alan Ball (RFA), FS, Cowboys. Age: 26. -- Tendered by Cowboys (no compensation)
Haruki "Hiro" Nakamura, S, Ravens. Age: 25.
Jarrad Page, S, Patriots. Age: 26. -- Tendered by Patriots
Erik Coleman, SS, Falcons. Age: 29. -- Signed with Lions (1 year)
Joe Lefeged, SS, Rutgers. Age: 23.
Jerrard Tarrant, FS, Georgia Tech. Age: 22.
Jeron Johnson, SS, Boise State. Age: N/A.
Eugene Wilson, FS, Texans. Age: 31.
Brandon McGowan, S, Patriots. Age: 27.
Usama Young, FS, Saints. Age: 26.
Ryan Mundy, S, Steelers. Age: 26.
Sean Considine, SS, Jaguars. Age: 28.
Deon Grant, SS, Giants. Age: 32.
Aaron Francisco, S, Colts. Age: 28.
Marcus Hudson, S, Panthers. Age: 28.
Josh Bullocks, FS, Bears. Age: 28.
James Ihedigbo, S, Jets. Age: 27. -- Tendered by Jets (no compensation)
C.C. Brown, S, Lions. Age: 28.
Tyrell Johnson, S, Vikings. Age: 26.
Josh Barrett (RFA), SS, Patriots. Age: 26. -- Re-signed with Patriots (2 years, $1.75 million)
Eric Frampton, S, Vikings. Age: 27.
Hiram Eugene, S, Raiders. Age: 30. -- Re-signed with Raiders (4 years, $10.25 million)
Tyron Brackenridge, S, Jaguars. Age: 27. -- Re-signed with Jaguars
Michael Johnson, S, Giants. Age: 27.
Jon McGraw, S, Chiefs. Age: 32.
Nick Sorensen, S, Browns. Age: 33.
Gibril Wilson, S, Bengals. Age: 29.
Matt Ware, S, Cardinals. Age: 28.
Hamza Abdullah, S, Cardinals. Age: 28.
Sabby Piscitelli, S, Browns. Age: 28.
Jamie Silva (RFA), S, Colts. Age: 26.
Al Afalava (ERFA), S, Colts. Age: 24.
Donnie Nickey, S, Titans. Age: 31.
Anthony Smith, S, Packers. Age: 27.
Tom Nelson, S, Bengals. Age: 24.
Jon Corto (RFA), S, Bills. Age: 26. -- Re-signed with Bills
Matt Giordano, S, Saints. Age: 28.
Chris Reis, S, Saints. Age: 27.
Reshard Langford (ERFA), S, Chiefs. Age: 25.
Antoine Harris, S, Eagles. Age: 29.
Lawyer Milloy, SS, Seahawks. Age: 37.
Pierson Prioleau, S, Saints. Age: 34.
Tyrone Carter, S, Chargers. Age: 35.

 

[Cr122]

Corners



2011 NFL Free Agency: Star rating is out of five. Age listing as of Sept. 1, 2011.

Nnamdi Asomugha, CB, Raiders. Age: 30.
I don't need to tell you that Nnamdi Asomugha is one of the top cornerbacks in the NFL. Every team in the league will be interested in signing him this offseason.

Johnathan Joseph, CB, Bengals. Age: 27.
An elite NFL cornerback, Johnathan Joseph will be franchised this offseason. Joseph has expressed interest in staying with the team, which is a major plus.

Champ Bailey, CB, Broncos. Age: 33.
Re-signed with Broncos (4 years, $43 million; $22 million guaranteed)

Champ Bailey turns 33 in June, but hasn't shown any signs of slowing down. He's still erasing elite receivers week in and week out.




Brandon Carr (RFA), CB, Chiefs. Age: 25.
Tendered by Chiefs

Everyone knows about Brandon Flowers, but Brandon Carr is one of the top No. 2 cornerbacks in the NFL. And he'll only be 25 in May.

Brent Grimes (RFA), CB, Falcons. Age: 28.
Tendered by Falcons (1st)

Brent Grimes really improved his game and emerged as Atlanta's best cornerback in 2010.

Chris Carr, CB, Ravens. Age: 28.
Chris Carr unexpectedly emerged as Baltimore's top cornerback this season. Just in time for a new contract too...




Antonio Cromartie, CB, Jets. Age: 27.
Antonio Cromartie has his ups and downs, but overall is a decent, play-making No. 2 cornerback.

Josh Wilson, CB, Ravens. Age: 26.
Josh Wilson was a pleasant surprise for the Ravens this season, as he came out of nowhere to become a reliable starter for them.

Ike Taylor, CB, Steelers. Age: 31.
Ike Taylor had a poor 2009 season, but did a great job bouncing back this year. Taylor surrendered only one touchdown in 2010.

Carlos Rogers, CB, Redskins. Age: 30.
Carlos Rogers didn't play well this season because of a myriad of injuries. If healthy, he's still a solid starting cornerback.

Richard Marshall, CB, Panthers. Age: 26.
Richard Marshall whined about not receiving a long-term extension this past offseason. He subsequently struggled throughout the 2010 season, though some of that blame falls on Carolina's lacking pass rush.

Chris Houston, CB, Lions. Age: 26.
Chris Houston can't be a No. 1 corner. The Lions might be able to get away with him being a starter across from someone more talented, however.

Kelly Jennings, CB, Seahawks. Age: 28.
A low-end starting cornerback, Kelly Jennings is hit-or-miss in coverage.

Eric Wright, CB, Browns. Age: 26.
Eric Wright is physically talented, but has regressed each season in the NFL. He's still young though, so maybe he can turn his career around elsewhere.

Ronde Barber, CB, Buccaneers. Age: 36.
Re-signed with Buccaneers (1 year)

Ronde Barber inexplicably had an amazing 2010 campaign. He turns 36 in April though, so one would think that he's due for a sharp decline.




Stanford Routt, CB, Raiders. Age: 28.
Re-signed with Raiders (3 years, $31.5 million; $20 million guaranteed)

Stanford Routt began the year well, but struggled down the stretch. He tied for second among all cornerbacks with 12 penalties on the season.

Kyle Arrington (ERFA), CB, Patriots. Age: 25.
Tendered by Patriots

Kyle Arrington started across from Devin McCourty for most of the year. He wasn't terrible, but he'd be better off at nickel.

Fabian Washington, CB, Ravens. Age: 28.
Fabian Washington has the talent to start in this league, but hasn't been able to stay healthy.

Drayton Florence, CB, Bills. Age: 30.
You can get by with Drayton Florence as your starting cornerback. However, he's not a particularly strong starter, as he tends to struggle in run support.

Phillip Buchanon, CB, Redskins. Age: 30.
Teams could do worse at nickel than Philip Buchanon. I wouldn't want him starting too often, however. He embarrassed himself on a few occasions in 2010.

Kendric Burney, CB, North Carolina. Age: 23.
I can't believe Kendric Burney wasn't drafted. He could start next year in a Tampa-2 system.

Brian Williams, CB, Falcons. Age: 32.
Brian Williams was Atlanta's top corner last year, but suffered a season-ending injury in October. He did fine at nickel this season, but at 32, he's old and injury-prone.

William Gay, CB, Steelers. Age: 26.
Drew Coleman, CB, Jets. Age: 28.
Roy Lewis (ERFA), CB, Seahawks. Age: 26. -- Re-signed with Seahawks
Lito Sheppard, CB, Vikings. Age: 30.
Justin King (RFA), CB, Rams. Age: 24. -- Re-signed with Rams
Michael Adams, CB, Cardinals. Age: 26.
William Middleton (ERFA), CB, Jaguars. Age: 25.
Kevin Dockery, CB, Rams. Age: 27.
Jason Allen, CB, Texans. Age: 28.
Tye Hill, CB, Lions. Age: 29.
Frank Walker, CB, Vikings. Age: 28.
Maurice Leggett, CB, Chiefs. Age: 24.
David Jones, CB, Jaguars. Age: 25. -- Re-signed with Jaguars
Corey Graham, CB, Bears. Age: 26.
Elbert Mack (RFA), CB, Buccaneers. Age: 25.
Brandon McDonald, CB, Lions. Age: 26.
Quincy Butler (RFA), CB, Rams. Age: 27.
William James-Peterson, CB, 49ers. Age: 32.
Travis Daniels, CB, Chiefs. Age: 28.
Ashton Youboty, CB, Bills. Age: 27.
Dante Hughes, CB, Chargers. Age: 26.
Kennard Cox, CB, Seahawks. Age: 26. -- Re-signed with Seahawks (1 year, $550,000)
Eric King, CB, Lions. Age: 29.
Cary Williams, CB, Ravens. Age: 26.
Josh Bell (RFA), CB, Packers. Age: 26.
Anthony Madison, CB, Steelers. Age: 29.
Ellis Hobbs, CB, Eagles. Age: 28. -- Announced retirement

 

[LAZARUS_LOGAN]

Eric Weddle is NOT the best safety in the league after Reed and Polamalu.

 

[Cr122]

I don't think Center or DT is an area of need. For the guards, the only player I think the Cowboys should pursue if Blalock.

Well, for those areas, let's just say we might look for depth. We know Ratliff and Gurode are the starters.

Maybe we look for a cheaper option for backup in those two positions. Not the high end free agents.

 

[Cr122]

Eric Weddle is NOT the best safety in the league after Reed and Polamalu.

These aren't my rankings, I took them from Walterfootball.com

 

[LAZARUS_LOGAN]

I don't think the analysis on Eric Wright is accurate. Seems like the author had no real opinion so just glanced at his stats, mainly his tackles and then wrote that Wright has regressed every season. Lazy journalism.

 

[LAZARUS_LOGAN]

These aren't my rankings, I took them from Walterfootball.com

Well that explains it. Not talking about you. Walterfootball is much like the bleacherreport, where anybody can write for them.

 

[LAZARUS_LOGAN]

Well, for those areas, let's just say we might look for depth. We know Ratliff and Gurode are the starters.

Maybe we look for a cheaper option for backup in those two positions. Not the high end free agents.

I'd rather go the UFDA for Gurode, and we do have Josh Brent for Ratliff, but I wouldn't mind if we went after Ian Williams.

 

[Cr122]

Well that explains it. Not talking about you.

No problem.

I just figured I'd copy and paste a list from one of those sites so we could see who's available, and who here might be interested in what players.

 

[Cr122]

I'd rather go the UFDA for Gurode, and we do have Josh Brent for Ratliff, but I wouldn't mind if we went after Ian Williams.

Yeah, that's what we might do for Center and DT.

Heck, we might sign a lot of the UDFA's, and then sign a few free agents through free agency to fill the voids.

I'm sure we'll release some vets as well, so we'll need to replace those guys at some point.

 

[CowboysRMX]

I'm starting to think dallas will not be active players in fa. Instead letting players on the team prove themselves. Maybe 2 or 3 but not much. And doug free will be one.

 

[Bob Sacamano]

I'd like to bring in brandon mebane to replace spears and then resign bowen. Wed have a pretty good dline then along with rat of course and brent.

 

[dbair1967]

I'm starting to think dallas will not be active players in fa. Instead letting players on the team prove themselves. Maybe 2 or 3 but not much. And doug free will be one.

After doing that last yr and coming up short, I dont see this happening at all. They'll definitely be looking at some defensive help in free agency, and I still wouldnt be surprised if they add a free agent Guard to replace Kosier or Davis.

 

[CowboysRMX]

After doing that last yr and coming up short, I dont see this happening at all. They'll definitely be looking at some defensive help in free agency, and I still wouldnt be surprised if they add a free agent Guard to replace Kosier or Davis.

Well they have to have three cap to do that. Dallas isn't in a spot that they can spend heavily. Yes you might see them release players but thats just to get under the cap.