10. Sione Pouha was an absolute force last year at the defensive tackle position, so much so that he was named to Sports Illustrated’s All-Pro team. He’s the only defensive lineman on this list, and he’d be higher if he weren’t 33-years-old. As one of the better run-stoppers in the league, he’ll improve whatever defense he ends up with, and would likely jump at the chance to part ways with the imploding Jets.
9. Brandon Carr is one of few cornerbacks on the market, and as the game continues its trend toward a passing one, quality defensive backs are growing more and more valuable. He may not be the best CB around, but with so many star quarterbacks in the NFL, having someone who can slow them down is critical. Carr had four interceptions on an iffy Chiefs team last year, and he’s still young at just 25.
8. Matt Flynn has only started two games in his NFL career, but did you watch them? He’s the best quarterback available not named Peyton Manning, and he’s been able to study under one of the league’s best in Aaron Rodgers. Of course, wherever he ends up won’t have the same kind of receiving corps he did with the Packers, but at 26, he still has the raw talent to improve a number of teams.
7. Stephen Tulloch starred at the middle linebacker position for the upstart Lions last year. He racked up 111 tackles (finishing well within the top 20), and was third among linebackers in interceptions. He’ll likely cost the Lions too much money to keep, but those teams who can afford the 27-year-old (like the Eagles, who desperately need a viable MLB) will be getting a heck of a player.
6. Carlos Rogers is another defensive back, and he really came into his own with the 49ers this past season. He was a good player with the Redskins in years past, but he always had trouble actually intercepting the ball. He figured that out, finishing second in the league with six picks. At 30, his age might turn some teams away, but he has more than enough talent and experience.
5. Vincent Jackson is finally hitting the free agent market after many contract disputes with the Chargers, and he’s no doubt determined to show the world he’s been underpaid his whole career. He’s a two-time pro-bowler, and his athletic abilities are just freakish. He’s unquestionably the best receiver on the market.
4. Carl Nicks was part of the offensive line that let Drew Brees throw for over 5,000 yards and set all kinds of records. That, and the fact he’s still only just 26, will attract a lot of teams, but he has had a few weight issues in his career, which could scare some off. If he can keep his weight down, he’ll end up a great signing for whoever lands him.
3. Cortland Finnegan is perhaps best known for getting punched in the face by Houston’s Andre Johnson, but that speaks to his style of play, too. He’s one of the biggest pests in the game, more than capable of getting under the opposition’s skin. He can back up his brash nature, and is one of the best corners in the league today. Again, in a passing league, he’ll be highly sought after.
2. Mario Williams is simply a phenomenal talent. The former first overall pick didn’t necessarily lose his job in Houston, but with Peyton Manning (likely) leaving the division and young Connor Barwin easily outplaying his contract, the defensive end became slightly more expendable. He’ll earn a pretty penny wherever he ends up, but don’t be surprised to see him take less money somewhere that gives him a chance to win (like New England).
1. Peyton Manning’s position at the top of this list hardly warrants any explanation, but can’t you just imagine each suitor’s sales pitch? Arizona: “Hey Peyton, we have Larry Fitzgerald!” Or Miami: “Hi Peyton, we live in Miami!” Or the Jets: “Hey there Manning, we have Jenn Sterger! Just don’t send her a picture of
your junk.”
