2012 NFL Free Agency Thread

[Hasselbeck]

Not a shocking move at all.. but here you go:

Cornerback Marcus Trufant is being released by the Seattle Seahawks, the team announced Wednesday.
Trufant, 31, was chosen by Seattle in the first round of the 2003 draft out of Washington State, and he is the longest-tenured member of the team having played nine seasons for the Seahawks.

Trufant played in four games this season before he was placed on injured reserve because of an issue with his back. It was similar to the back injury that kept him out of the first six games of the 2009 season.

Trufant met with team officials Wednesday before the transaction would be announced. Indications are that Trufant is fine to resume playing, and he plans to continue his career. Trufant was scheduled to make more than $7 million, according to the database at the NFL Players Association. It was the fifth year on a contract he signed with the team in 2008 after making the Pro Bowl.

Finances did not necessarily predicate his release, though. Trufant took a paycut last year and remained a starter entering the season. This year, his role would likely be different after the emergence of other defensive backs.

Brandon Browner made the Pro Bowl in his first year in the NFL, and rookie Richard Sherman also showed a bright future. The team also has Walter Thurmond entering his third year and Byron Maxwell, also a promising player entering his second season.

Trufant attended Wilson High School in Tacoma and went on to Washington State. His brother, Isaiah played for the New York Jets last season while the youngest brother, Desmond, is currently at the University of Washington.

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/ht...seahawksreleasingmarcustrufantlongtimecb.html

 

[Golden Taters]

Very sad news for me, I will really miss Trufant.

 

[Aso]

Brandon Browner FTW

 

[leaffan]

Madden 04, after about 3 or 4 years Trufant was an easy 99OVR CB thanks to his potential rating being sky high.

 

[Rayman]

Madden 04, after about 3 or 4 years Trufant was an easy 99OVR CB thanks to his potential rating being sky high.

There were potential ratings back then?

 

[Warner2BruceTD]

Remember when 'veteran' CB Marcus Trufant was a hotly debated draft prospect over at MaddenMania?

 

[leaffan]

There were potential ratings back then?

I think it was a more hidden one and was more based on play then anything to. It wouldn't be wierd for a 79 OVR rookie to be a mid 90 after 2 or 3 seasons because of how much emphasis on stats everything was.

 

[Derrville]

After about 5 seaon everyone on my team was a 99 ovr lol Except Romo... they wouldnt let him get past 96.

 

[Chrispy]

2012 NFL Free Agency Thread

Drew Brees QB Franchised 6-0 209 11 Saints 94
Peyton Manning QB Released 6-5 230 14 Colts Broncos 89
Ray Rice RB Franchised 5-8 212 4 Ravens 87
Mike Wallace WR RFA 6-0 199 3 Steelers 87
Carl Nicks OG UFA 6-5 343 4 Saints Buccaneers 86
Vincent Jackson WR UFA 6-5 230 7 Chargers Buccaneers 85
Wes Welker WR Franchised 5-9 185 8 Patriots 84
Cliff Avril DE Franchised 6-3 260 4 Lions 83
Matt Forte RB Franchised 6-2 218 4 Bears 83
Reggie Wayne WR UFA 6-0 198 11 Colts Colts 83
Vernon Carey OG UFA 6-5 340 8 Dolphins 82
Curtis Lofton LB UFA 6-0 241 4 Falcons 82
Terrell Thomas CB UFA 6-0 191 4 NY Giants NY Giants 82
Dwayne Bowe WR Franchised 6-2 221 5 Chiefs 81
Dashon Goldson S Franchised 6-2 200 5 49ers 81
Michael Griffin S Franchised 6-0 203 5 Titans 81
Cortland Finnegan CB UFA 5-10 188 6 Titans Rams 80
DeSean Jackson WR Franchised 5-10 175 4 Eagles Eagles 80
Kareem McKenzie OT UFA 6-6 330 11 NY Giants 80
John Abraham DE UFA 6-4 263 12 Falcons Falcons 79
PLAYER POS. FA TYPE HT WT EXP 2011 TEAM 2012 TEAM GRADE
Matt Birk C UFA 6-4 310 14 Ravens Ravens 79
Brodrick Bunkley DT UFA 6-2 306 6 Broncos Saints 79
Calais Campbell DE Franchised 6-8 300 4 Cardinals 79
Luis Castillo DE Released 6-3 290 7 Chargers 79
Dallas Clark TE Released 6-3 252 9 Colts 79
London Fletcher LB UFA 5-10 245 14 Redskins 79
Aubrayo Franklin DT UFA 6-1 317 9 Saints 79
Antonio Garay DT UFA 6-4 320 5 Chargers 79
Ben Grubbs OG UFA 6-3 310 5 Ravens Saints 79
E.J. Henderson LB UFA 6-1 245 9 Vikings 79
DeAndre Levy LB RFA 6-1 238 3 Lions 79
Robert Mathis DE Franchised 6-2 245 9 Colts Colts 79
Chris Myers C UFA 6-4 289 7 Texans Texans 79
Stephen Tulloch LB UFA 5-11 240 6 Lions Lions 79
Lardarius Webb CB RFA 5-10 182 3 Ravens 79
Mario Williams LB UFA 6-6 283 6 Texans Bills 79
Eric Winston OT Released 6-7 302 6 Texans Chiefs 79
Eric Wright CB UFA 5-10 190 5 Lions Buccaneers 79
Red Bryant DE UFA 6-4 323 4 Seahawks Seahawks 78
Braylon Edwards WR Released 6-3 214 7 49ers 78
PLAYER POS. FA TYPE HT WT EXP 2011 TEAM 2012 TEAM GRADE
Jared Gaither OT UFA 6-9 340 5 Chargers Chargers 78
Ryan Grant RB UFA 6-1 222 5 Packers 78
Kelly Gregg DT UFA 6-0 320 12 Chiefs 78
Leroy Hill LB UFA 6-1 238 7 Seahawks 78
Steve Hutchinson OG Released 6-5 313 11 Vikings Titans 78
Jeff Saturday C UFA 6-2 295 13 Colts 78
Anthony Spencer LB Franchised 6-3 257 5 Cowboys 78
Tracy Porter CB UFA 5-11 186 4 Saints Broncos 77
Jason Campbell QB UFA 6-5 230 7 Raiders Bears 76
John Carlson TE UFA 6-5 251 4 Seahawks Vikings 76
Pierre Garcon WR UFA 6-0 210 4 Colts Redskins 76
Jarret Johnson LB UFA 6-3 260 9 Ravens Chargers 76
Carlos Rogers CB UFA 6-0 192 7 49ers 49ers 76
Matt Roth DE UFA 6-4 275 7 Jaguars 76
Kamerion Wimbley LB Released 6-4 255 6 Raiders Titans 76
Jeff Backus OT UFA 6-5 305 11 Lions Lions 75
Jason Brown C Released 6-3 320 7 Rams 75
Fred Davis TE Franchised 6-4 258 4 Redskins 75
Andre Gurode C UFA 6-4 318 10 Ravens 75
Geno Hayes LB UFA 6-1 226 4 Buccaneers 75
PLAYER POS. FA TYPE HT WT EXP 2011 TEAM 2012 TEAM GRADE
Peyton Hillis RB UFA 6-2 250 4 Browns Chiefs 75
Brandon Jacobs RB Released 6-4 264 7 NY Giants 75
Bradie James LB UFA 6-2 246 9 Cowboys 75
Jason Jones DT UFA 6-5 276 4 Titans Seahawks 75
LaRon Landry S UFA 6-0 220 5 Redskins NY Jets 75
Todd McClure C UFA 6-1 296 13 Falcons 75
Terence Newman CB Released 5-10 192 9 Cowboys 75
Shaun Rogers DT UFA 6-4 350 0 Saints 75
Bob Sanders S UFA 5-8 206 8 Chargers 75
Jerome Simpson WR UFA 6-2 190 4 Bengals 75
Marcus Trufant CB Released 5-11 197 9 Seahawks 75
Bobbie Williams OG UFA 6-4 345 12 Bengals 75
Phil Dawson PK Franchised 5-11 200 13 Browns Browns 74
James Farrior LB Released 6-2 243 15 Steelers 74
Robert Gallery OG Released 6-7 325 8 Seahawks Patriots 74
David Hawthorne LB UFA 6-0 246 4 Seahawks 74
Donnie Jones P UFA 6-2 220 8 Rams 74
Thomas Jones RB UFA 5-10 212 12 Chiefs 74
Le'Ron McClain RB UFA 6-0 260 5 Chiefs Chargers 74
Rocky McIntosh LB UFA 6-2 242 6 Redskins 74
PLAYER POS. FA TYPE HT WT EXP 2011 TEAM 2012 TEAM GRADE
Robert Meachem WR UFA 6-2 210 5 Saints Chargers 74
Kyle Orton QB UFA 6-4 225 7 Chiefs Cowboys 74
Scott Wells C UFA 6-2 300 8 Packers Rams 74
Joseph Addai RB Released 5-11 214 6 Colts 73
Ronde Barber CB UFA 5-10 184 15 Buccaneers Patriots 73
Cedric Benson RB UFA 5-11 227 7 Bengals 73
Gary Brackett LB Released 5-11 235 9 Colts 73
Adam Carriker DE UFA 6-6 315 5 Redskins Redskins 73
Andre Carter DE UFA 6-4 255 11 Patriots 73
Abram Elam S UFA 6-0 212 6 Cowboys 73
David Garrard QB Released 6-1 236 10 Jaguars Dolphins 73
Manny Lawson LB UFA 6-5 240 6 Bengals 73
Barrett Ruud LB UFA 6-2 241 7 Titans 73
Demetrius Bell OT UFA 6-5 311 3 Bills 72
Michael Bush RB UFA 6-1 245 4 Raiders Bears 72
Cedric Griffin CB Released 6-0 203 6 Vikings Redskins 72
Sean Jones S UFA 6-1 220 8 Buccaneers 72
Jameel McClain LB UFA 6-1 245 4 Ravens 72
Chad Rinehart OG RFA 6-5 323 3 Bills 72
Laurent Robinson WR UFA 6-2 194 5 Cowboys Jaguars 72
PLAYER POS. FA TYPE HT WT EXP 2011 TEAM 2012 TEAM GRADE
Aaron Ross CB UFA 6-0 190 5 NY Giants Jaguars 72
Jake Scott OG UFA 6-5 292 8 Titans 72
Gerald Sensabaugh S UFA 6-1 208 7 Cowboys 72
Visanthe Shiancoe TE UFA 6-4 250 9 Vikings 72
Max Starks OT UFA 6-8 345 8 Steelers 72
Roy Williams WR UFA 6-3 215 8 Bears 72
Jacob Bell OG UFA 6-5 304 8 Rams 71
Tyvon Branch S Franchised 6-0 205 4 Raiders 71
Melvin Bullitt S Released 6-1 201 5 Colts 71
Brandon Carr CB UFA 6-0 207 4 Chiefs Cowboys 71
Brian Dawkins S UFA 6-0 210 16 Broncos 71
Ryan Diem OG UFA 6-6 320 11 Colts 71
Early Doucet WR UFA 6-0 212 4 Cardinals Cardinals 71
Jay Feely PK UFA 5-10 208 11 Cardinals 71
Chad Henne QB UFA 6-3 230 4 Dolphins Jaguars 71
Anthony Herrera OG Released 6-2 315 8 Vikings 71
Sean Locklear OG UFA 6-4 310 8 Redskins 71
Brandon Meriweather S UFA 5-11 200 5 Bears Redskins 71
Reggie Nelson S UFA 5-11 206 5 Bengals Bengals 71
Matt Prater PK Franchised 5-10 195 5 Broncos 71
PLAYER POS. FA TYPE HT WT EXP 2011 TEAM 2012 TEAM GRADE
Pat Sims DT UFA 6-2 330 4 Bengals 71
Steve Smith WR UFA 5-11 195 5 Eagles 71
Shawntae Spencer CB Released 6-1 190 8 49ers Raiders 71
Eric Steinbach OG Released 6-6 295 9 Browns 71
Hines Ward WR Released 6-0 205 14 Steelers 71
Ron Bartell CB Released 6-1 208 7 Rams Raiders 70
Plaxico Burress WR UFA 6-5 232 0 NY Jets 70
Shaun Ellis DE UFA 6-5 290 12 Patriots 70
Deon Grant S UFA 6-2 215 12 NY Giants 70
Israel Idonije DE UFA 6-6 275 8 Bears Bears 70
Tim Jennings CB UFA 5-8 185 6 Bears Bears 70
Kendall Langford DE UFA 6-6 295 4 Dolphins Rams 70
Jim Leonhard S UFA 5-8 188 7 NY Jets 70
Mario Manningham WR UFA 6-0 185 4 NY Giants 49ers 70
Richard Marshall CB UFA 5-11 198 6 Cardinals Dolphins 70
Brad Maynard P UFA 6-1 188 15 Browns 70
Amobi Okoye DT UFA 6-2 292 5 Bears 70
Neil Rackers PK UFA 6-1 202 12 Texans 70
Bo Scaife TE UFA 6-3 249 7 Bengals 70
Husain Abdullah S UFA 6-0 204 4 Vikings 69
PLAYER POS. FA TYPE HT WT EXP 2011 TEAM 2012 TEAM GRADE
Oshiomogho Atogwe S Released 5-11 205 7 Redskins 69
Dan Connolly OG UFA 6-4 313 6 Patriots Patriots 69
Ramon Foster OG RFA 6-6 325 3 Steelers 69
Domonique Foxworth CB Released 5-11 180 7 Ravens 69
William Gay CB UFA 5-10 190 5 Steelers 69
Tommie Harris DT UFA 6-3 295 8 Chargers 69
Tim Hightower RB UFA 6-0 222 4 Redskins 69
Brandon Lloyd WR UFA 6-0 188 9 Rams Patriots 69
Jeremy Mincey DE UFA 6-3 270 3 Jaguars Jaguars 69
Kareem Moore S Released 5-11 217 4 Redskins 69
Cory Redding DT UFA 6-4 298 9 Ravens Colts 69
Paul Soliai DT UFA 6-4 355 5 Dolphins Dolphins 69
Jason Taylor LB UFA 6-6 244 15 Dolphins 69
Lawrence Vickers FB Released 6-0 250 6 Texans Cowboys 69
Cary Williams CB RFA 6-1 190 3 Ravens 69
Madieu Williams S UFA 6-1 203 8 49ers 69
Anthony Adams DT Released 6-0 310 9 Bears 68
Mark Anderson DE UFA 6-4 255 6 Patriots Bills 68
Chase Blackburn LB UFA 6-3 247 7 NY Giants 68
Kevin Boss TE Released 6-6 255 5 Raiders Chiefs 68
PLAYER POS. FA TYPE HT WT EXP 2011 TEAM 2012 TEAM GRADE
Leonard Davis OG UFA 6-6 355 11 Lions 68
Daniel Fells TE UFA 6-4 252 5 Broncos Patriots 68
Chris Harris S UFA 6-0 211 7 Lions 68
Deuce Lutui OG UFA 6-4 338 6 Cardinals 68
Mike Nugent PK Franchised 5-10 183 7 Bengals 68
Brodney Pool S UFA 6-2 214 7 NY Jets Cowboys 68
Stanford Routt CB Released 6-1 195 7 Raiders Chiefs 68
Samson Satele C UFA 6-3 300 5 Raiders Colts 68
Josh Scobee PK Franchised 6-1 210 8 Jaguars 68
Lito Sheppard CB UFA 5-10 194 10 Raiders 68
Alex Smith QB UFA 6-4 217 7 49ers 49ers 68
Jacob Tamme TE UFA 6-3 236 4 Colts 68
LaDainian Tomlinson RB UFA 5-10 215 11 NY Jets 68
Frank Walker CB UFA 5-11 200 9 Cowboys 68
Harry Douglas WR UFA 6-0 183 3 Falcons Falcons 67
Jonathan Fanene DE UFA 6-4 292 7 Bengals Patriots 67
Adam Goldberg OT UFA 6-7 305 8 Rams 67
Brent Grimes CB Franchised 5-10 183 4 Falcons 67
Gary Guyton LB UFA 6-3 245 4 Patriots 67
Geoff Hangartner C UFA 6-5 301 7 Panthers Panthers 67
PLAYER POS. FA TYPE HT WT EXP 2011 TEAM 2012 TEAM GRADE
Albert Haynesworth DT Released 6-6 350 10 Buccaneers 67
Montrae Holland OG UFA 6-2 340 9 Cowboys 67
Brandon Keith OT UFA 6-5 335 4 Cardinals 67
Kory Lichtensteiger OG RFA 6-2 292 3 Redskins Redskins 67
Nate Livings OG UFA 6-5 332 4 Bengals Cowboys 67
Randy McMichael TE UFA 6-3 248 10 Chargers Chargers 67
Legedu Naanee WR UFA 6-2 220 5 Panthers 67
Jeremy Shockey TE UFA 6-5 251 10 Panthers 67
Kevin Smith RB UFA 6-1 217 4 Lions 67
Bryan Thomas LB UFA 6-4 265 10 NY Jets NY Jets 67
Cadillac Williams RB UFA 5-11 218 7 Rams 67
Jovan Belcher LB RFA 6-2 228 3 Chiefs 66
Mike Brisiel OG UFA 6-5 300 4 Texans Raiders 66
Levi Brown OT Released 6-6 324 5 Cardinals Cardinals 66
Marc Colombo OT UFA 6-8 320 10 Dolphins 66
Derrick Dockery OG UFA 6-6 325 9 Cowboys 66
Jo-Lonn Dunbar LB UFA 6-0 226 4 Saints 66
Corey Graham CB UFA 6-0 196 5 Bears 66
Erin Henderson LB UFA 6-3 244 4 Vikings 66
Tyrell Johnson S UFA 6-0 207 4 Vikings 66
PLAYER POS. FA TYPE HT WT EXP 2011 TEAM 2012 TEAM GRADE
Brandon McDonald CB UFA 5-10 185 5 Lions 66
Roscoe Parrish WR UFA 5-9 175 7 Bills 66
Tony Pashos OT Released 6-6 325 9 Browns 66
Eddie Royal WR UFA 5-10 185 4 Broncos Chargers 66
Frostee Rucker DE UFA 6-3 280 6 Bengals Browns 66
Daniel Sepulveda P UFA 6-3 230 5 Steelers 66
Adam Snyder C UFA 6-6 325 7 49ers Cardinals 66
Marcus Thomas DT UFA 6-3 316 5 Broncos 66
Steve Weatherford P Franchised 6-2 211 6 NY Giants NY Giants 66
Mike Adams S UFA 5-11 200 8 Browns Broncos 65
Stacy Andrews OT UFA 6-6 318 8 NY Giants 65
Devin Aromashodu WR UFA 6-2 201 5 Vikings 65
Tyler Brayton DE UFA 6-6 280 9 Colts 65
Keith Brooking LB UFA 6-2 240 14 Cowboys 65
Ronnie Brown RB UFA 6-0 230 7 Eagles 65
Stephen Cooper LB UFA 6-1 235 9 Chargers 65
Nick Folk PK UFA 6-1 222 5 NY Jets NY Jets 65
Justin Forsett RB UFA 5-8 198 4 Seahawks 65
BenJarvus Green-Ellis RB UFA 5-11 215 4 Patriots Bengals 65
Steve Gregory S UFA 5-11 195 6 Chargers Patriots 65
PLAYER POS. FA TYPE HT WT EXP 2011 TEAM 2012 TEAM GRADE
Rex Grossman QB UFA 6-1 225 9 Redskins Redskins 65
Letroy Guion DT UFA 6-4 303 4 Vikings Vikings 65
Rashad Johnson S RFA 5-11 204 3 Cardinals 65
Chilo Rachal OG UFA 6-5 323 4 49ers 65
Fred Robbins DT Released 6-4 322 12 Rams 65
Benny Sapp CB UFA 5-10 190 8 Vikings 65
Ernie Sims LB UFA 6-0 230 6 Colts 65
LaRod Stephens-Howling RB RFA 5-7 185 3 Cardinals 65
Mike Tolbert RB UFA 5-9 243 4 Chargers Panthers 65
Greg Toler CB RFA 6-0 192 3 Cardinals 65
Erik Walden LB UFA 6-2 250 4 Packers 65
Floyd Womack OG UFA 6-4 328 11 Cardinals 65
Vince Young QB UFA 6-5 232 6 Eagles 65
Khalif Barnes OT UFA 6-5 325 7 Raiders Raiders 64
Zack Bowman CB UFA 6-1 196 4 Bears 64
Deion Branch WR UFA 5-9 195 10 Patriots Patriots 64
Andre Caldwell WR UFA 6-0 190 4 Bengals Broncos 64
Jerricho Cotchery WR UFA 6-1 200 8 Steelers 64
Oniel Cousins OT UFA 6-4 315 4 Browns Browns 64
Kellen Davis TE UFA 6-7 267 4 Bears Bears 64
PLAYER POS. FA TYPE HT WT EXP 2011 TEAM 2012 TEAM GRADE
Antonio Dixon DT RFA 6-3 322 3 Eagles Eagles 64
Keyaron Fox LB UFA 6-3 235 8 Redskins 64
Kedric Golston DE UFA 6-4 310 6 Redskins 64
Clark Haggans LB UFA 6-4 243 12 Cardinals 64
Derrick Harvey DE UFA 6-5 268 4 Broncos 64
Kelvin Hayden CB UFA 6-0 195 7 Falcons 64
Stephon Heyer OT UFA 6-6 330 5 Raiders 64
James Ihedigbo S UFA 6-1 215 5 Patriots 64
Adam Jones CB UFA 5-10 188 5 Bengals Bengals 64
Nate Jones CB UFA 5-10 185 8 Patriots 64
Dan Koppen C UFA 6-2 296 9 Patriots 64
Donovan McNabb QB Released 6-2 240 13 Vikings 64
Maurice Morris RB UFA 5-11 216 10 Lions 64
Ryan Mundy S RFA 6-1 209 3 Steelers 64
Jerious Norwood RB UFA 5-11 205 6 Rams 64
Jarrad Page S UFA 6-0 225 6 Vikings 64
Mike Pollak OG UFA 6-3 301 4 Colts 64
Geoff Schwartz OG Released 6-6 331 3 Panthers 64
Aaron Smith DE Released 6-5 298 13 Steelers 64
Chester Taylor RB UFA 5-11 213 10 Cardinals 64
PLAYER POS. FA TYPE HT WT EXP 2011 TEAM 2012 TEAM GRADE
Tony Ugoh OT UFA 6-5 301 5 NY Giants 64
Gerard Warren DT UFA 6-4 330 11 Patriots 64
Gibril Wilson S UFA 6-0 206 8 Bengals 64
Martellus Bennett TE UFA 6-6 270 4 Cowboys NY Giants 63
Phillip Buchanon CB UFA 5-11 190 10 Redskins 63
Jonathan Casillas LB RFA 6-1 227 3 Saints 63
Chris Chamberlain LB UFA 6-1 238 4 Rams 63
Joel Dreessen TE UFA 6-4 245 6 Texans 63
Dannell Ellerbe LB RFA 6-1 240 3 Ravens 63
Matt Flynn QB UFA 6-2 225 4 Packers Seahawks 63
Ted Ginn WR UFA 5-11 180 5 49ers 63
Earnest Graham RB UFA 5-9 225 8 Buccaneers 63
Ahmard Hall FB UFA 5-11 241 6 Titans 63
Chris Hope S UFA 6-0 204 10 Titans 63
Jimmy Kleinsasser TE UFA 6-3 272 13 Vikings 63
Jacob Lacey CB Released 5-10 177 3 Colts Lions 63
Doug Legursky C RFA 6-1 315 3 Steelers 63
Dwight Lowery S UFA 5-11 198 4 Jaguars Jaguars 63
Evan Mathis OG UFA 6-5 302 7 Eagles Eagles 63
Aaron Maybin LB RFA 6-4 228 3 NY Jets 63
PLAYER POS. FA TYPE HT WT EXP 2011 TEAM 2012 TEAM GRADE
Joe Mays LB UFA 5-11 250 4 Broncos Broncos 63
Mike McGlynn C UFA 6-4 315 4 Bengals Colts 63
Josh Morgan WR UFA 6-1 215 4 49ers Redskins 63
Juqua Parker DE UFA 6-2 250 11 Eagles Browns 63
Dennis Roland OT UFA 6-9 322 4 Bengals 63
Bryan Scott S UFA 6-1 220 9 Bills Bills 63
Matthew Slater WR UFA 6-0 200 4 Patriots Patriots 63
Casey Wiegmann C UFA 6-2 285 16 Chiefs 63
Wesley Woodyard LB UFA 6-0 229 4 Broncos Broncos 63
Jason Allen CB UFA 6-1 204 6 Texans Bengals 62
Will Allen CB UFA 5-10 195 11 Dolphins Patriots 62
Ken Amato LS UFA 6-2 240 9 Titans 62
Danny Amendola WR RFA 5-11 188 3 Rams 62
Alan Ball CB UFA 6-2 197 4 Cowboys 62
Dave Ball DE UFA 6-5 255 7 Titans 62
Justin Bannan DT Released 6-3 312 10 Rams 62
Mackenzy Bernadeau OG UFA 6-4 308 4 Panthers Cowboys 62
Desmond Bryant DT RFA 6-5 290 3 Raiders 62
Mark Clayton WR UFA 5-10 190 7 Rams 62
Anthony Collins OT UFA 6-5 315 4 Bengals 62
PLAYER POS. FA TYPE HT WT EXP 2011 TEAM 2012 TEAM GRADE
Dan Connor LB UFA 6-2 231 4 Panthers Cowboys 62
Omar Gaither LB UFA 6-2 235 6 Panthers 62
Anthony Gonzalez WR UFA 6-0 193 5 Colts Patriots 62
Artis Hicks OG UFA 6-4 325 10 Browns Dolphins 62
Shaun Hill QB UFA 6-3 220 10 Lions Lions 62
Sammie Lee Hill DT RFA 6-4 329 3 Lions 62
Kelly Jennings CB UFA 5-11 180 6 Bengals 62
Justin King CB UFA 5-11 197 4 Rams 62
Matt Leinart QB Released 6-5 227 6 Texans 62
Scott Mruczkowski C UFA 6-5 310 7 Chargers 62
Dimitri Patterson CB Released 5-10 200 6 Browns Browns 62
Leonard Pope TE UFA 6-8 264 6 Chiefs 62
Barry Richardson OT UFA 6-6 319 4 Chiefs 62
James Sanders S UFA 5-10 210 7 Falcons 62
Owen Schmitt FB UFA 6-2 245 4 Eagles 62
Donte' Stallworth WR UFA 6-0 220 9 Redskins Patriots 62
Eric Weems WR UFA 5-9 195 4 Falcons Bears 62
Jamaal Anderson DE UFA 6-6 272 5 Colts 61
Billy Bajema TE UFA 6-4 259 7 Rams 61
Kahlil Bell RB RFA 5-11 219 3 Bears 61
PLAYER POS. FA TYPE HT WT EXP 2011 TEAM 2012 TEAM GRADE
Michael Bennett DL RFA 6-4 274 3 Buccaneers Patriots 61
Atari Bigby S UFA 5-11 213 6 Seahawks Chargers 61
Raheem Brock DE UFA 6-4 274 10 Seahawks 61
Andra Davis LB UFA 6-1 255 10 Bills 61
Kyle DeVan OG Released 6-2 306 3 Eagles 61
Brandyn Dombrowski OT RFA 6-5 323 3 Chargers 61
Trai Essex OG UFA 6-5 324 7 Steelers 61
Gary Gibson DT UFA 6-3 312 6 Rams 61
Wallace Gilberry DE UFA 6-2 268 4 Chiefs 61
John Gilmore TE UFA 6-5 257 10 Saints 61
Quentin Groves LB UFA 6-3 265 4 Raiders 61
Mario Haggan LB UFA 6-3 274 9 Broncos 61
Russ Hochstein OG UFA 6-4 300 11 Broncos 61
Roderick Hood CB UFA 5-11 201 9 Rams 61
Josh Johnson QB UFA 6-3 205 4 Buccaneers 61
Jimmy Kennedy DT UFA 6-4 302 9 NY Giants 61
Ryan McBean DT RFA 6-5 305 4 Broncos 61
Paul Oliver S UFA 5-11 210 5 Chargers 61
Brady Poppinga LB UFA 6-3 252 7 Rams 61
Steve Slaton RB UFA 5-9 209 4 Dolphins Dolphins 61
PLAYER POS. FA TYPE HT WT EXP 2011 TEAM 2012 TEAM GRADE
Philip Wheeler LB UFA 6-2 240 4 Colts 61
Victor Abiamiri DE UFA 6-4 267 5 Eagles 60
Greg Camarillo WR UFA 6-2 200 6 Vikings 60
Ben Graham P UFA 6-5 236 7 Lions Lions 60
John Greco OG UFA 6-4 315 4 Browns Browns 60
Jacob Hester FB UFA 5-11 235 4 Chargers 60
David Johnson TE RFA 6-2 260 3 Steelers 60
Jon Kitna QB UFA 6-2 220 15 Cowboys 60
Derek Landri DT UFA 6-2 290 5 Eagles 60
Trevor Laws DT UFA 6-1 304 4 Eagles 60
Keenan Lewis CB RFA 6-0 208 3 Steelers 60
Mat McBriar P UFA 6-0 227 8 Cowboys 60
Jon McGraw S UFA 6-3 208 10 Chiefs 60
Phillip Merling DE RFA 6-4 295 3 Dolphins 60
Matthew Mulligan TE Released 6-4 265 3 NY Jets 60
Ashlee Palmer LB Released 6-1 236 3 Lions 60
Mike Sellers FB Released 6-3 272 12 Redskins 60
Chansi Stuckey WR Released 6-0 196 5 Cardinals 60
Dave Tollefson DE UFA 6-4 266 5 NY Giants 60
Reggie Torbor LB UFA 6-2 258 8 Bills 60

 

With free agency beginning at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, it seemed appropriate to rank the top 50 unrestricted free agents this year.

There are some elite free agents out there, including potential franchise-altering quarterbacks Peyton Manning and Matt Flynn, both of whom are probably ranked lower than you think. Even though several wideouts were franchised, there is still talent available at WR, with eight players appearing on the list. The defensive tackle position also has eight players, while there are six linebackers and six defensive tackles.

Remember, while this list factors in age, upside and other factors, it's primarily based on each free agent's value right now.

1. DE Mario Williams: The Texans' defense was excellent this year, even with Williams out of the lineup, and they have two young starting outside linebackers that look to be fine players in their own right. Plus, Houston doesn't have a lot of money to spend after re-signing Arian Foster. Williams could end up being the most sought after free agent in this class. Maybe the Patriots, Titans or Jaguars will step up for his services.

2. G Carl Nicks: Nicks is definitely in the conversation as the best guard in the NFL. He has size, power, feet, nastiness and is excellent both in protection and mashing his opponent in the run game. The Saints need him, but there are a ton of teams out there that would do cartwheels to land this guy. Dallas is one team that comes to mind immediately.

3. WR Vincent Jackson: There is a lot of consistency issues with Jackson and he isn't as young as many tend to think, but he is big, fast and extremely talented. Jackson is a perfect match in San Diego, with Philip Rivers' deep passing skills, but he could make an offense like New England's utterly unstoppable.

4. QB Peyton Manning: Yes, Manning is going to be 36 years old and his neck surgeries are gigantic red flags, but he also is in the conversation as the best quarterback who ever lived -- and last we saw of him, Manning was still fantastic. Will he get back to that level? Even if he can't replicate his greatness exactly, if I were the 49ers, Dolphins, Chiefs, Seahawks or several others, I would be extremely interested.

5. LB Stephen Tulloch: One of the best middle linebackers in the game and improving yearly, Tulloch will be more sought after than many fans realize. He covers ground, is a punishing downhill force and keeps getting better as a coverage player. Detroit needs to bring this guy back, but a team like Philadelphia might have something to say about that.

6. C Chris Myers: Houston doesn't have a ton to spend, but Myers is more valuable to the Texans than any other team. He is perfect for what they do on offense, but he is also sure to garner an awful lot of attention -- possibly from teams like Dallas, Tennessee and Green Bay.

7. DT Red Bryant: This is a very good football player that too few know people about. He is the type of valuable defensive lineman that can line up all over a defensive front. Seattle does have plenty of room under the cap and considering how well Bryant fits their scheme, the Seahawks would be wise to bring him back.

8. DT Paul Soliai: Soliai was franchised last year, but the Dolphins are going to more of a 4-3 scheme, and Soliai is pretty much a pure 3-4 nose tackle. He isn't young, but a space-eating interior defensive lineman can play a long time and he will rarely be on the field when the defense is in nickel.

9. DT Sione Pouha (re-signed with NYJ): Tough, powerful and durable, Pouha is exactly what you look for at nose tackle in the 3-4. Although he is an older guy, Pouha doesn't have as much wear and tear on his body as most players his age, since he is just a three-year starter.

10. WR Brandon Lloyd: The best two seasons of Lloyd's career have come over the past two years, despite the nightmarish conditions in St. Louis. He has always been able to make the spectacular catches, but he's become much more consistent. Josh McDaniels would love to get Lloyd to New England, where he could make the Patriots' offense complete.

11. DE John Abraham: Abraham probably can't handle the workload that he once did, and he might be just a designated pass rusher going forward, but he still presents a lot of problems for opposing protection schemes. Look for a contender in need of a last piece or two to be very intrigued by Abraham.

12. CB Brandon Carr: The Chiefs have ample room under the cap, but they are notoriously frugal and recently signed Stanford Routt, so it's now unlikely that Carr returns to Kansas City. However, Carr is going to be very attractive on the open market and many teams could use a starting cornerback with his abilities.

13. CB Cortland Finnegan: This is a controversial player who plays with aggression and nastiness, but he also had a good season even without the help of much of a pass rush. I could see New England or Oakland being very interested in him. Cincinnati is another team that makes a lot of sense, but the frontrunners in my mind are Detroit or St. Louis, both of whom now have direct ties to Finnegan in Tennessee.

14. WR Marques Colston: Colston can line up all over the field and despite his big body, is very effective out of the slot. He is also excellent in the red zone and catches everything thrown his way. But Colston isn't a quick-twitch guy, benefits a ton from his surrounding cast and has an extensive medical history. New Orleans is the best place for him.

15. CB Carlos Rogers: A year ago, San Francisco signed Rogers to a one-year deal. He was an excellent acquisition and had a very good year on an exceptional defense. Of course his supporting cast helped his cause, but Rogers' stock has certainly climbed noticeably since the free agency process one year ago.

16. DT Brodrick Bunkley: Bunkley is a much better player than many realize and did a great job for the Broncos in 2011. A pure run-stuffer that fits the 4-3 much better than the 3-4, Bunkley could be a hot commodity. The Broncos have plenty to spend under the cap and should make it a high priority to bring Bunkley back to Denver.

17. QB Matt Flynn: I understand the allure, but Flynn scares me -- especially considering how much cash it will most likely take to get him signed. Very heady and a good anticipatory thrower, Flynn is extremely ordinary in terms of his physical skill set compared to other NFL starters. So everything needs to be ideal for him -- which is much easier to pull off with Green Bay's offense than where he most likely inevitably ends up. Miami seems like Flynn's most likely destination, but Cleveland and Seattle also could be in the market if Manning goes to the Dolphins.

18. S LaRon Landry: Injuries have been a real problem for Landry, but there aren't many safeties in the NFL with his blend of size and speed. He could be a decent answer for covering all these tall, athletic tight ends that are all the rage right now, but really, he is much better suited near the line of scrimmage than away from it.

19. DE Kendall Langford: A true 3-4 defensive end, Langford will have much more value to teams that run such a scheme than many might realize. Miami is moving to a 4-3, so like Soliai, Langford could end up on a defense that better fits his skills.

20. RB Michael Bush: I have some doubts if Bush can be a true bell cow runner that gets a high number of carries week after week for the next few years, but he has been quite impressive when Darren McFadden has been out of the lineup -- which has been often. Cincinnati or Denver could be an excellent landing spot for Bush.

21. WR Reggie Wayne: Wayne has put together a Hall of Fame résumé and is one of the best wideouts of this generation. He was a difficult guy to evaluate in 2011 because of the awful supporting cast around him in Indianapolis, but in the right situation, Wayne could have several productive seasons left. He also has value as a mentor for a young player at the position.

22. LB Curtis Lofton: A foundation of Atlanta's defense and possessing the skill set to play in either a 4-3 or 3-4, Lofton seems destined to return to Atlanta as a leader of the defense. But the Falcons do have huge decisions to make with their spending and inside linebacker isn't a premium position.

23. LB David Hawthorne: Although not a household name, Hawthorne is an active and productive linebacker. He can line up in multiple spots on the second level and could fit either a 3-4 or 4-3 defense, which makes him quite marketable.

24. G Evan Mathis: Maybe the least known player on my list, Mathis has been extremely effective when given the chance to start. He is a technically sound guard and will be a great asset to any offensive line. He helped make up a fantastic left side of the line in Philadelphia next to Jason Peters.

25. DE Andre Carter: Carter played very well for the Patriots last year before getting hurt. His career path is very distinct in that he plays very well when playing defensive end in a 4-3 and struggles at outside linebacker in a 3-4, which is a role he has unfortunately been thrust into at times. It seems likely that Carter is back in New England.

26. G Ben Grubbs: Grubbs isn't an elite starting guard, but he is very solid and talented. He would be an upgrade for just about any team in the league. Baltimore recently invested heavily in another guard, Marshal Yanda, and might be reluctant to have that much money tied up in the position.

27. RB Peyton Hillis: Hillis had an extremely uneven 2011 season -- mostly because of injury, but not exclusively -- after an outstanding 2010. He does a lot of things well and could certainly still help a running game quite a bit, but to me, he needs to be paired with another change-of-pace running back.

28. C Scott Wells: Although he doesn't get talked about with all the star power on the Packers' roster, Wells is one of the better centers in the league. He and the Packers have a very good thing going with each other, but it sounds as though Green Bay is prepared to go in another direction, which surprises me.

29. WR Mario Manningham: Coming off a huge performance on the greatest of stages, Manningham is sure to get a lot of attention on the open market. The Giants are tight up against the cap and likely won't be able to afford the luxury of bringing back their No. 3 receiver. There are a lot of inconsistencies in Manningham's game, but to me, he is a fine second wideout opposite a true No. 1. Tampa Bay could be a landing spot.

30. WR Pierre Garcon: He's a player who's difficult to count on. He can have some maddening drops, but his talent is undeniable, especially as a downfield target. If he goes to the right team as a No. 2 wideout, he could be quite successful. He is, however, a risky signing for the amount of money he's sure to command.

31. OT Jared Gaither: Gaither has had a roller-coaster career and could start the 2012 season with his fourth NFL team. However, he is talented and can be a franchise left tackle. He has had success at this level, but again, there is a ton of risk in signing Gaither for big money.

32. OT Demetrius Bell: The Bills have a fair amount of money to spend and Bell should be exactly the type of player they look to keep and build around. He was a project at left tackle and has developed nicely. Bell's best play is still yet to come.

33. DT Jason Jones: Jones had a down year in 2011, but he was often miscast as a defensive end in the Titans' 4-3 scheme. Still young with excellent penetration skills, Jones can be one of the better interior pass-rushers in the league. Some 3-4 teams might also consider him at DE.

34. DE Jeremy Mincey: He doesn't get a lot of publicity playing in Jacksonville, but Mincey is a very solid all-around 4-3 defensive end. He should have a lot of value on the open market, but the Jaguars have a lot to spend. If the Jaguars can't re-sign Mincey, they would be extremely weak at defensive end.

35. WR Laurent Robinson: Robinson came on huge for the Cowboys in 2011. Durability has been a gigantic problem for him, but he's difficult to cover and looks like a fine No. 2 wideout who can exploit single coverage. Robinson is very fast and scored 11 touchdowns in 2011.

36. QB Alex Smith: The 49ers used the franchise tag on Dashon Goldson, so they must feel confident Smith will return to San Francisco. In 2011, Smith had the best season of his career. He is the ultimate game-manager -- in a best and worst sense of the term. San Francisco should at least kick the tires on Peyton Manning before locking up Smith long-term.

37. CB Tracy Porter: Not the biggest or most physical corner around, but very adept in man-to-man coverage. Because of that, Porter will be coveted in this passing league. He can start for just about any of the 32 clubs. There will be a wave of corners who get quickly scooped up in free agency, and then Porter will be next in line.

38. LB London Fletcher: An oldie, but still a goodie, Fletcher would have been much higher on this list if it weren't for his advanced age. But he can still play. The Eagles should do everything possible to pluck Fletcher, a leader on and off the field, away from the divisional-rival Redskins.

39. DT Shaun Rogers: It seemed like a down year for the massive defensive tackle in New Orleans, but he did damage in what was a rather limited role. Stamina can be a problem for Rogers, but he is still capable of dominating as an interior pass rusher or run stuffer. He fits a variety of schemes.

40. LB Erin Henderson: Erin should now officially be out of the shadow of big brother E.J. Henderson. His best fit is as an outside linebacker in a 4-3, but I think he could handle the middle in that scheme, if properly protected, and could handle the weak inside spot in a 3-4. Henderson will be coveted. To really improve his overall value, Henderson needs to show he can perform on every down, but I think he has that ability.

41. DT Antonio Garay: Garay isn't at an ideal age (32) to hit the free agent market and he does have a worrisome injury history, but he can be a real handful in the middle of a defense. Garay played much better in 2010 than in 2011, but a defense that wants a tough and penetrating nose tackle (like Houston) would love to add him.

42. WR Robert Meachem: There has been a fair amount of inconsistency in Meachem's career, but the former first-round pick does have an awful lot of ability. Much of the reason for his inconsistent production is that he has been around so many other high-quality pass-catchers who demand the football. With a rash of wideouts off the market already due to the franchise tag, receiver-starved teams like Jacksonville should be really active after Meachem.

43. LB Jarret Johnson: Johnson has quietly been an essential part of many great Ravens defenses. He isn't nearly as flashy as some of those teammates, but Johnson can line up in many spots and is one of the very best in the league as an edge run defender.

44. OT Vernon Carey: The Dolphins' offensive line was a bit of a mess in 2011 -- and Carey didn't help that cause. But for some reason, Miami asked Carey to play guard instead of his usual right tackle position. Kansas City has a gaping hole at right tackle, as do the Jets. Both teams should be all over Carey, who excelled at that position not all that long ago.

45. DE Mark Anderson: Pass rushers are at a premium in the NFL and Anderson showed this past season in New England that he can disrupt an opposing passing game from either his customary end spot in a 4-3 or at outside linebacker in an odd front. Every team could use a player with such qualities.

46. RB Mike Tolbert: Tolbert is much more than a powerful, short-yardage runner. He also catches the ball very well and does possess some lateral agility. With Ryan Mathews on board in San Diego, Tolbert was never able to fully show his value, but I still think he is best paired with a smaller runner in a committee situation. Also, despite his brutal running style, Tolbert doesn't have a lot of wear and tear on his bowling-ball body.

47. DT Aubrayo Franklin: After a terrific 2010 season with the 49ers, Franklin lasted on the free agent market for quite a while before being signed by New Orleans. He wasn't the same player in the Saints' 4-3 as he was with a better supporting cast in San Francisco's 3-4. While that raises concerns, 3-4 defenses looking for a pure nose tackle, like Kansas City for example, should be very interested.

48. C Matt Birk: It would be very surprising if Birk left Baltimore. Even at his age (35), he is one of the better centers in the league. He is very intelligent and knows every trick of the trade. Signing him to a one-year deal would be the most logical move.

49. C Todd McClure: Much like Birk, McClure is an advanced-aged free-agent pivot who doesn't have a lot of football left, but is also playing quite well. And also like Birk, his intangibles are very strong, so he could be of great help to a young line in need of some leadership.

50. QB Jason Campbell: I can't say I am a true Campbell supporter, but he has been handed the short end of the stick at times throughout his career and he has a lot of ability. If I were in charge of the Jets, Jaguars or Broncos, Campbell would be dead in my sights. Campbell might surprise, and at worst he would be one of the best backups in the league.

Honorable mentions:
QB Chad Henne, OT Jeff Backus, QB David Garrard, C Nick Hardwick, LB Leroy Hill, DE Israel Idonije, LB Manny Lawson, S Reggie Nelson

-ESPN

 

[Len B]

Loving that the Patriots should be getting a top ten guy. We will see though.

 

[nwfisch]

Bears getting #1 on the list?

 

[spiker]

Bears getting #1 on the list?

And then draft a WR or get #3 on the list and then draft DE. Either way. But Mario and Peppers as book ends would snap Stafford and Rodgers in half this season.

 

[EmpireWF]

Raiders Cut Kevin Boss

Raiders Cut Kevin Boss

Schefter

Raiders plan to release TE Kevin Boss, who last summer signed a four-year, $16 million deal, including $6 million guaranteed.

His wife is pregnant, too, not that it matters here.

Assuming he's healthy, wonder if the Giants would have any interest in bringing him back if he doesn't carry a big $$$ demand.

 

[krulmichael]

They should have never given up Miller.

 

[j.hen]

Falcons should get him. :shifty:

 

[Tailback U]

They should have never given up Miller.

Had to. Plus Miller was overrated anyway.

 

[1ke]

Schefter


His wife is pregnant, too, not that it matters here.

Assuming he's healthy, wonder if the Giants would have any interest in bringing him back if he doesn't carry a big $$$ demand.

I Lol'd at this.

Reggie is doin work so far.

 

[Hasselbeck]

Bears getting #1 on the list?

No.

(P.S. Going to go ahead and make this the free agency thread)

 

[Aso]

It's funny how the Eagles mis-evaluated Broderick Bunkley. They wanted him as a pass rushing 3 technique. Instead he's pretty good at stopping the run, something the Eagles severely struggled with this past season.

 

[Aso]

Bears getting #1 on the list?

A "number of NFL sources" tell CSN Chicago that the Bears are considered around the league to be the favorites for free agent Mario Williams as Tuesday's 4PM ET signing period approaches.
The Bears are all systems go in free agency, and Williams would form the NFL's most dominant bookend duo in the league across from Julius Peppers. Ultimately, Chicago may choose between Williams and free agent wideout Vincent Jackson. It sounds like Williams is coach Lovie Smith's priority, and new GM Phil Emery's old team in Kansas City rarely spent big on wide receivers. While the Chargers, Patriots, and Titans have been linked to Williams as well, the Bears may be positioned best to land him. We should find out by midweek.

:joeybats: