Offensive Free agents ratings per ESPN Insider

[PantherPaul]

Not sure if I posted this earlier but here are the Offensive free agents and Insider thoughts.

Quarterback
Drew Brees is by far the top quarterback in this free-agent class, but he was tabbed by San Diego as its franchise player last year and is recovering from a fairly serious shoulder injury. The Chargers have former first-round pick Philip Rivers waiting in the wings and conceivably could allow Brees to leave, especially if his shoulder doesn't progress as hoped.
If he hits the open market and can pass physicals from potential suitors, Brees will be a very hot commodity. He has established himself as a player a team can build around. If Brees is healthy and can't work out a long-term contract with San Diego, he probably will be franchised again. Quarterbacks take too much time and energy to develop for teams to just let them walk. Ideally, the Chargers would like to sign Brees to a long-term deal and trade Rivers to the highest bidder. San Diego is a talented club that is close to being a serious contender. Swinging a deal for Rivers could bring the picks and/or players that put the Chargers over the top.

Several teams that could use a veteran caretaker until a first- or second-year player is ready to take over will actively pursue Jon Kitna. At one point, it appeared Kitna would be a lock to hit the open market, but the major knee injury Carson Palmer suffered in the playoffs has clouded that picture. Palmer is unlikely to be ready for the start of the season, so Kitna becomes a greater priority for a Cincinnati team expecting to return to the playoffs. Based on the leaguewide lack of depth at the position and Palmer's uncertain status, Kitna should be able to drive up his price.



If the Chargers let Drew Brees test the market, many teams will be interested.Depending on the level of compensation restricted free agent Chris Simms commands, several teams could show interest. Simms is mature for his age and has shown he can thrive as an NFL starter. But don't expect him to get away. Tampa Bay coach Jon Gruden has talked about keeping both Simms and Brian Griese on the roster, and the team probably will slap the No. 1 tender on Simms to protect its interests. In that case, any team that wants to sign Simms would have to give up a first-round pick if the Buccaneers chose not to match the offer.

Another situation to watch is in Arizona. Both of the Cardinals' top passers -- Kurt Warner and Josh McCown -- are scheduled to hit free agency. The team finished with the league's top-ranked passing offense last season, although much of the credit goes to playmaking receivers Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin and an inept run game. The Cardinals wouldn't mind keeping both quarterbacks, but Warner will be their first priority. He is injury-prone and has limited mobility, but Warner still can be effective when given time in the pocket.

McCown has more physical tools, but he makes too many mental mistakes. Despite many opportunities, McCown hasn't been able to separate himself. With so few serviceable free-agent quarterbacks available, McCown could cash in this offseason. But he comes with the "buyer beware" label.

Seattle restricted free agent Seneca Wallace could attract some attention, but he never has proved to be anything more than a backup/project.

Veterans Jeff Garcia, Chris Weinke, Jeff Blake, Charlie Batch, Jamie Martin, Ty Detmer, Todd Collins and Anthony Wright could garner some interest, but none will be asked to fill a No. 1 role long term.

Overall, this group is below average. There are more teams with quarterback needs than there are viable options available on the market.



Running back
This year's group of free-agent running backs is an exceptionally strong one, but several of the top backs probably won't hit the open market.
Shaun Alexander had a career season and was named the league MVP. Although questions about his overall toughness persist, he continues to deliver -- and never more than in 2006. Alexander was Seattle's franchise player this past season and, according to the terms of his contract, he can't be franchised again. If the Seahawks don't strike a long-term deal with Alexander, he will have a chance to test the market. Seattle wouldn't be wise to let that happen.

Edgerrin James ranks among the league's elite backs and, like Alexander, was his team's franchise player last season. James can be franchised again, but that prospect seems unlikely given that Indianapolis also has free-agent receiver Reggie Wayne to take care of. James -- a gifted receiver and underrated blocker as well as an excellent runner -- is versatile. He likes playing for the Colts, but he doesn't care for living in the Midwest and probably will test his value.

Jamal Lewis is only 26 and has rare physical tools, although he obviously is coming off a down year. The main concern: off-field issues. Lewis spent last offseason serving time for an old drug charge. He also tends to be a little too vocal with the media and has griped about his role with Baltimore on more than one occasion. When he failed to get the long-term contract he sought before the season and turned in the least productive performance of his career, some within the Ravens' organization questioned Lewis' effort.

Ahman Green also had a troubled season. He got off to a slow start in Green Bay before he suffered a quadriceps injury and was placed on injured reserve. Green also has had some personal issues that could make some teams anxious, and there are definite concerns about how Green, whose 29th birthday is Thursday, has left in the tank.

DeShaun Foster is big and talented and performed well down the stretch in 2005. He has shined during the playoffs and clearly is Carolina's best runner, but his injury history and inconsistencies could prove to be major blows to his free-agent stock. Foster has yet to prove he can carry the load for an entire season, so the Panthers have a tough decision ahead of them. If the team doesn't re-sign him, it essentially will have to start over at the position in the offseason.

Running backs such as Chester Taylor, Najeh Davenport, Ron Dayne, Michael Bennett and Jonathan Wells will get some attention for backup roles, and perhaps starting positions, from needy teams.

With Baltimore expected not to re-sign Lewis, locking up Taylor will be a priority. Taylor is an underrated performer who catches the ball well, runs hard and makes plays when given the opportunity. Cleveland, which pursued Taylor when he was an unrestricted free agent last offseason, could make another run at him in hopes of landing a back who can split time with or even supplant starter Reuben Droughns.

Davenport has shown flashes of ability and is versatile, but he hasn't proved capable of being a lead back. And because he gets nicked up quite a bit for a backup, many teams question how well he would hold up in the role.

Dayne, a former first-rounder, was a major flop with the New York Giants. But he has shown signs of life in Denver, where it seems all running backs thrive. In fact, Dayne is a downhill zone runner who is a perfect fit for the Broncos. He will be making a mistake if he chooses a team that doesn't use a similar system.

Bennett is a picture of inconsistency, but some team surely will be enamored with his speed and breakaway ability.

Wells isn't flashy, but he is a capable backup who can help wear down a defense and contribute in short-yardage situations.

Down-the-line options include Tony Fisher (Green Bay), Reno Mahe (Philadelphia), Kenny Watson (Cincinnati) and Chad Morton (New York Giants). Although none is a potential starter, each would add value as a third-down back and special teams contributor.



Fullback
The contract of Mack Strong, one of the best lead blockers in the business, is up. Though he has been in the NFL for 13 years, he can still kick-start a run game. Alexander, assuming he stays, surely will lobby heavily for his fullback to stay put.
Strong is a sledgehammer who strikes on the rise, with power, and has paved the way for all of Alexander's excellent seasons. However, Strong offers very little versatility.

The Packers' William Henderson is another veteran who could draw some interest. At 35, he still catches the ball well, has a very powerful lower body and is capable with the ball in his hands. Age is a concern, but Henderson continues to perform at a solid level.

Fred Beasley has been reliable in both the running and passing games throughout his career, but he clashed with San Francisco's coaching staff last season and didn't play a down in the 49ers' final four games despite being healthy. A change of scenery will do him good.

Restricted free agent Jeremi Johnson (Bengals) is an underrated talent. He has improved every season and is a load at the point of contact. He has built up his physique and has become more of an all-around threat. Johnson is a good receiver and is effective with the ball in his hands.

Verron Haynes (Steelers) is listed as a fullback, but he is a hybrid type who fits best in a nickel role. He catches the ball well and is solid in pass protection against the blitz. His biggest weakness over his career has been his durability. He isn't a true thumper of a lead blocker, but he would fit nicely as a fullback in a West Coast offense.

Though not a dynamic position, fullback is represented very well in this free-agent class. Teams will have their choice among a good mix of blockers, receivers and special teams players.

 

[PantherPaul]

Wide receiver
Few sure starting wide receivers are available in unrestricted free agency this year, but Reggie Wayne clearly is the head of an ordinary class. Wayne has become an invaluable piece of Indianapolis' offensive machine, which is why the Colts will do everything possible to keep him off the market. Although he has yet to prove he can be a No. 1 receiver who can handle consistent double coverage, he is a big-time playmaker. Numerous teams will be beating a path to Wayne's door if the Colts don't lock him up before the free-agent signing period begins.


Andy Lyons/Getty Images
Antwaan Randle El isn't an ideal No. 2 receiver, but he'll want to get paid like one.David Givens, Joe Jurevicius, Antonio Bryant and Antwaan Randle El are the only other starter-caliber unrestricted free agents at the position. Randle El started in Pittsburgh last season out of necessity, but he is better suited to be a No. 3.

Givens is a physical No. 2 receiver who takes care of the little things. He is a consistent route runner, has extensive big-game experience and is an excellent blocker. Givens has been in the league only three years and should continue to improve. He is a hard worker who wants to get better.

Jurevicius, the steal of last year's free-agent market, was a huge asset for Seattle as Darrell Jackson battled injuries for much of the season. Jurevicius has excelled in big games and runs very well for such a huge target. He is a physical presence in the run game and probably has convinced several teams that he can be a successful No. 2 wideout.

Bryant has a ton of potential but has yet to tap into all of it, which has been his M.O. since he entered the league. Since being traded from Dallas, he has improved his attitude and his game, but he still hasn't developed into a consistent No. 1 target. Cleveland would like him back, but the team won't overpay to make it happen.

Randle El is versatile and has room to improve even further, but he is vastly undersized and, in the ideal situation, would be a slot receiver and punt return specialist. Expect Randle El to hit the open market and demand more money than he probably deserves.

Four restricted free agents could garner some attention: Nate Burleson (Minnesota), Brandon Lloyd (San Francisco), Shaun McDonald (St. Louis) and Kevin Curtis (St. Louis). Depending on how these players are tendered, each could field a few contract proposals.

Lloyd has good size and is San Francisco's only weapon to speak of in the passing game. Although he lacks great speed, he has excellent hands. He needs to get a little tougher and more physical, but he is capable of outstanding numbers if afforded better quarterback play. The 49ers certainly can't afford to lose Lloyd.

Burleson failed to step in as the Vikings' No. 1 receiver after the departure of Randy Moss, but he still has some value as a No. 2 or No. 3 if he is surrounded by other playmakers.

Curtis will be the more sought-after player of the two Rams receivers. He has solid speed, has improved his route running and is explosive with the ball in his hands. Still developing, Curtis has the potential to ascend to a No. 2 receiver in a good passing offense.

McDonald, the Rams' fourth receiver, likely never will be more than a No. 3 in the NFL. He lacks height and size, but he is a very quick route runner.

David Tyree is a special teams demon who would be a major loss for the Giants should they fail to bring him back. He could be attractive to a contender in need of a special teams leader.

Overall, this is just an ordinary free-agent group, and the draft doesn't have much top-end talent at receiver. Those facts could compel teams to overpay for the position in the offseason.



Tight end
This group is seriously lacking in star power. None of this year's free-agent tight ends figures to make a big impact with a new team in 2006.
However, a handful of players are experienced pros who can contribute as spot starters and role players. Chris Baker, Christian Fauria, Jerame Tuman, Aaron Shea, Justin Peelle, Dan Campbell and Matt Schobel won't be top priorities for their current teams, but each potentially could help his career -- and a new team -- with a change of scenery.

Baker is young and has pass-catching upside because of good athletic ability and above-average speed. He can stretch the seam, but is very inconsistent and needs to play with more passion.

Fauria is lost behind New England's two talented young tight ends, but the veteran still is a reliable receiver who knows how to get open in the middle of the field.

Tuman is tough and intelligent, but he really doesn't excel in any one area. He seems destined to be a career backup.

Shea, who lacks adequate lower-body strength and power, is more of an H-back. But he is a reliable receiver who will make some plays. Shea tends to get nicked up a lot, though, which could hurt his value.

Peelle shows some athleticism as a receiver and still is young enough to have some upside. He has improved as a blocker, but with Antonio Gates on the roster, Peelle isn't a top priority for San Diego.

Campbell isn't much of a playmaker, and he lacks quick-twitch route-running skills. But he has excellent size and is a powerful blocker in both the running and passing games.

Schobel has good size and speed, but his blocking is a liability. He had a history of hamstring problems early in his career but recently has stayed relatively healthy. A team in the market for a tight end to contribute solely in the passing game could get some big plays out of Schobel.

Although there isn't an upper-echelon option in the bunch, plenty of solid No. 2 tight ends will be available in free agency.



Offensive tackle

RunyanJon Runyan, the best member of this group, will command top dollar from Philadelphia or one of a multitude of other interested teams. He is big and tough and has been a productive starter for years. He isn't very light on his feet, but Runyan can maul an opponent and brings an attitude to an offense.
Jeff Backus (Lions) lacks ideal agility on the left side, but he can help an offensive line at either tackle spot and perhaps at guard. He lacks the bulk most teams look for in a tackle, but he is reliable, smart and tough. He has a good understanding of blocking angles.

L.J. Shelton found a home in Cleveland last season. He tailed off toward the end of the season, but the Browns -- who lack depth on the offensive line -- could bring him back, at the right price. Shelton has been a starter in each of his seven NFL seasons and, though not a superstar, is a capable left tackle.

Kevin Shaffer was a restricted free agent with seventh-round compensation last offseason before Atlanta upgraded his tender. He didn't play as well in 2006 as he did in '05, but he is talented and athletic and can get stronger.

After the aforementioned OTs, there is a pretty good drop-off in talent.

Tom Ashworth, Mike Pearson and Stockar McDougle have good experience. Although none is an ideal starter, each should draw some interest at a position that lacks depth in free agency.

Ashworth has started games at both tackle spots and can get the job done as a regular if surrounded by good players.

Pearson spent most of 2005 on injured reserve (knee) and was a player Jacksonville had considered replacing even before he went down. He is an above-average athlete but isn't very tough or physical in the run game.

McDougle used his power and bulk to turn in a decent '04 season with Detroit, but he struggled to find a niche in Miami last year. His weaknesses: inconsistency and mental mistakes. McDougle is a bit of an enigma, a guy who plays very well one week and appears below average the next.

John St. Clair and Kevin Barry also are coming off seasons that didn't live up to their '04 performances. Both should get looks from a few teams that can use a player who will be a solid sixth or seventh lineman if he can't win a starting spot.

Veterans Anthony Clement and Victor Riley performed well under expectations in San Francisco and Houston, but could get some looks because of the lack of available talent at this position.

The best of the restricted-free-agent market are Tony Pashos (Baltimore), Wayne Hunter (Seattle) and Jordan Black (Kansas City). Pashos and Black saw extensive playing time this season and occasionally struggled, but both are young and have upside. Hunter has earned little playing time in his first two seasons, but he was highly regarded coming out of college.

A few available tackles can help teams with a need, but overall this is a run-of-the-mill group. Because there always seems to be a shortage of serviceable offensive linemen -- tackles in particular -- the majority of these players will wind up on NFL rosters at some point. Offensive tackles come at a premium, so chances always are good that a team or two will overpay at the position.

 

[PantherPaul]

Guard

HutchinsonPro Bowl selection Steve Hutchinson, far and away the top free-agent guard, is among the elite players at any position who could hit the open market this offseason. Although playing beside tackle Walter Jones helps a great deal, Hutchinson is a nasty finisher who moves well and is equally adept in the running and passing games. He has only five years under his belt, making him a premium free agent the Seahawks would love to keep, but he won't come cheap. Still, teams tend to avoid overpaying guards on the free-agent market, so Hutchinson might find that his value isn't quite what he might have hoped.
Tutan Reyes, Stephen Neal, Terrence Metcalf, Toniu Fonoti and Grey Ruegamer have starting experience, and each will attract attention on the open market. But all are second-tier players who won't command high-dollar contracts. For them, the goal should be finding the right system to suit their respective skills.

Reyes is a big-bodied interior lineman who has postseason experience and has been part of a successful, physical run game in Carolina. He is a better run-blocker than pass protector, but he would help a power-run team in need of a veteran guard.

Neal, who has been in the league only three years, has upside. Having played for New England and in plenty of playoff games will add to his attractiveness. His smarts, toughness and competitiveness make up for below-average athletic ability.

Metcalf has battled injuries while fighting for playing time in Chicago, but he has some power at the point of attack and is capable of filling a starting role on a team that is weak at the position.

Fonoti is a powerful talent who can be a road grader at the point of attack when he wants to be, but he has been a career underachiever. He was traded by San Diego to Minnesota midseason and quickly landed on injured reserve, so teams will need to analyze his health status closely.

Ruegamer is intriguing because of his ability to play guard and center. The lack of depth at guard could persuade some team to consider him as a starter, but he is far better suited for backup duty.

Guard is one of the few positions where the restricted free agents are much more appealing collectively than the unrestricted group.

Vince Manuwai is coming off a down year, but he still has ample upside and the tools to be an above-average starter. He has performed at a high level in the past.

Reggie Wells, Sean Mahan and Montrae Holland have experience as starters but are unlikely to get an upgraded tender. That makes them good candidates to move to new teams. Each has excellent upside and should continue to improve.

Hutchinson is the only superstar, but this is a deep group. Teams that have solid tackles generally don't need premier guards, so there shouldn't be a lot of big-money offers at the position. Still, expect plenty of movement.




Center
LeCharles Bentley, the best available center, should be a hot commodity. With all the troubles in New Orleans, Bentley might happily accept a fresh start on a winning franchise. Bentley plays low and is strong, tough and nasty. He ranks among the league's better players at the position.
Mike Flanagan and Jeff Mitchell are veteran linemen who have been quality performers over their careers but are coming off seasons that weren't among their best. Teams will have doubts about the long-term viability of both, so short-term contracts at the buyer's price are likely -- and could bear big rewards. Mitchell anchors a very solid Carolina line and, as the younger of the two linemen, is the more attractive commodity.

Justin Hartwig, a starter in Tennessee, is intelligent and works hard. But he isn't especially powerful, explosive or athletic in space.

Trey Teague has extensive starting experience, but he doesn't play with a great base and is too light to battle NFL nose tackles.

Seth McKinney and Melvin Fowler are younger options who still are developing. Each could be attractive to teams that are searching for a youngster who is potentially on the rise to come in and challenge a veteran at the position.

On the whole, this is an above-average group of free-agent centers. Expect a good bit of movement at the position this offseason.

 

[Wp28]

[Jonathon]Wells isn't flashy, but he is a capable backup who can help wear down a defense and contribute in short-yardage situations.

Givens is a physical No. 2 receiver who takes care of the little things. He is a consistent route runner, has extensive big-game experience and is an excellent blocker. Givens has been in the league only three years and should continue to improve. He is a hard worker who wants to get better.

I'll take two please

 

[Wp28]

[Jonathon]Wells isn't flashy, but he is a capable backup who can help wear down a defense and contribute in short-yardage situations.

Givens is a physical No. 2 receiver who takes care of the little things. He is a consistent route runner, has extensive big-game experience and is an excellent blocker. Givens has been in the league only three years and should continue to improve. He is a hard worker who wants to get better.

I'll take two please

and maybe a side order of Aaron Shea.