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Vinnie Iyer
Sporting News
DeAngelo Williams, part of a running back tandem in Carolina, can be a feature back elsewhere.
When exactly the NFL free-agent markets opens for 2011 depends on the players and owners coming to a new collective bargaining agreement, but when it does, this year's class offers many good starting options for teams looking to fill a variety of holes without breaking the bank. A look at the best players at each position in Sporting News' Super 99 rankings:
QUARTERBACKS
1. Peyton Manning, Colts. Although he hasn't signed his franchise tender, he isn't going anywhere.
2. Matt Hasselbeck, Seahawks. After a shaky regular season, he still proved he has the savvy to spark a team in the playoffs.
3. Kerry Collins, Titans. He still has a strong arm and would be a fine backup for a young starter.
RUNNING BACKS/FULLBACKS
1. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers. Of all backs, he has the most explosive potential and most impressive recent season.
2. Le'Ron McClain, Ravens. Baltimore might not be able to afford to keep the versatile blocker/power runner.
3. Ahmad Bradshaw, Giants. There are fumbling concerns, but he's right in his prime.
4. Michael Bush, Raiders. He proved he can be a fine complementary power back spelling Darren McFadden.
5. BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Patriots. He emerged as an effective and decisive power runner in 2010, and the Patriots want to keep him.
6. Darren Sproles, Chargers. You know what you get: A durable return man and great third-down back.
7. Cedric Benson, Bengals. He found a home in Cincinnati, and he likely will stay in Jay Gruden's run-heavy scheme.
8. Vonta Leach, Texans. Arian Foster would not have led the league in rushing without a good fullback.
9. Joseph Addai, Colts. Although nothing special, he can help a team that loves stretch plays.
10. Ronnie Brown, Dolphins. He can do just about everything when healthy. Unfortunately, health is a big issue.
11. Mike Tolbert, Chargers. A fullback pushed into a feature role in 2010, he might have overachieved.
12. Clinton Portis, Redskins. He's still only 29 and can be effective in a zone-blocking scheme.
13. Ricky Williams, Dolphins. He probably can't contribute too much except as a 10-touch power back.
WIDE RECEIVERS
1. Vincent Jackson, Chargers. Big and explosive, he delivers big plays all over the field.
2. Santonio Holmes, Jets. His knack for making the clutch catches makes him most attractive.
3. Sidney Rice, Vikings. Minnesota wants to keep its No. 1 receiver, and it would be interesting to see he fares without Brett Favre.
4. Malcom Floyd, Chargers. Think of him as a Vincent Jackson with a thinner frame.
5. Braylon Edwards, Jets. If more consistent and with his head on straight, he would make a lot more money this offseason.
6. Mike Sims-Walker, Jaguars. It's strange that Jacksonville didn't want to bring back an emerging receiver.
7. Steve Smith, Giants. He is a proven No. 2 possession type who can work the slot well.
8. Steve Breaston, Cardinals. He's a tough receiver with experience as a No. 1, 2 and 3.
9. Lance Moore, Saints. He is a great slot receiver who runs fine red-zone routes.
10. James Jones, Packers. If he learns to maintain focus and stop dropping balls, watch out.
11. Santana Moss, Redskins. His quickness and speed are there even with limited production.
12. Mark Clayton, Rams. He clicked with QB Sam Bradford and should return.
13. Brad Smith, Jets. He's ideal for teams still using the Wildcat and in need of slot guy, too.
14. Jacoby Jones, Texans. He has good experience as a No. 2 and No. 3 with some return ability.
15. Terrell Owens, Bengals. He continues to defy his age as a tantalizing talent. Unfortunately, he still carries the same baggage.
16. Randy Moss, Titans. See Owens, except the fact he was much less productive in 2010.
TIGHT ENDS
1. Zach Miller, Raiders. With Marcedes Lewis and Owen Daniels off the market, he's the only impact receiver here.
2. Kevin Boss, Giants. He's an exceptional blocker who can deliver as a receiver when called upon.
3. Bo Scaife, Titans. He still has good hands and can contribute multiple-tight end sets.
OFFENSIVE TACKLES
1. Doug Free, Cowboys. With standout athleticism, he could develop into an elite left tackle.
2. Matt Light, Patriots. He is on the downside of a great career.
3. Tyson Clabo, Falcons. He is a premier run blocker at right tackle.
4. Jared Gaither, Ravens. Even though he missed a season, he remains a potential cornerstone left tackle.
5. Jermon Bushrod, Saints. He had his ups and downs, but he learned a lot at left tackle the past two years.
6. Jeremy Trueblood, Buccaneers. Not a spectacular option, but he can help at right tackle.
7. Ryan Harris, Broncos. Playing opposite LT Ryan Clady, he held his own.
8. Willie Colon, Steelers. Like Gaither, he missed a season but can play on either side.
9. Jammal Brown, Redskins. He no longer can play at the Pro Bowl level he once showed in New Orleans.
GUARDS
1. Logan Mankins, Patriots. He received the franchise tag, but New England could trade him as it rebuilds the line.
2. Carl Nicks, Saints. After terrific guard-mate Jahri Evans broke the bank, he hopes it's his turn.
3. Davin Joseph, Buccaneers. If he can get healthy, he could again be a dominant player.
4. Harvey Dahl, Falcons. He is a mean and nasty mauler in the running game.
5. Daryn Colledge, Packers. He was solid for the Super Bowl champs.
6. Marshal Yanda, Ravens. He is versatile backup who also can play tackle.
7. Deuce Lutui, Cardinals. He could blossom in a power-running offense.
CENTERS
1. Olin Kreutz, Bears. He still has a mean streak and the savvy to help a young line.
2. Jonathan Goodwin, Saints. Although just a year removed from the Pro Bowl, he was fortunate to play next to two great guards.
DEFENSIVE ENDS
1. Cullen Jenkins, Packers. Injuries and age are concerns, but his versatility makes him a great 3-4 asset.
2. Charles Johnson, Panthers. He's not quite Julius Peppers, but he picked up his sack productivity.
3. Cliff Avril, Lions. Now that he benefits from Ndamukong Suh, Detroit won't let the budding pass rusher go.
4. Jason Babin, Texans. To come close to matching career year, he must stay in a "wide" pass-rush scheme.
5. Ray Edwards, Vikings. He is looking to emerge out of Jared Allen's shadow.
6. Mathias Kiwanuka, Giants. Injuries are the issue here; if healthy, he has double-digit sack potential.
7. Wallace Gilberry, Chiefs. The versatile youngster was coached up well by Romeo Crennel.
8. Shaun Ellis, Jets. Few have made the transition from 4-3 to 3-4 end as well.
DEFENSIVE TACKLES
1. Brandon Mebane, Seahawks. He will draw plenty of attention for his run-stopping ability.
2. Aubrayo Franklin, 49ers. He's the best of the 3-4 nose tackles available.
3. Barry Cofield, Giants. He is a productive defensive tackle who hasn't maxed out his potential.
4. Anthony Adams, Bears. He was the most consistent of Chicago's tackles in 2010.
5. Tommie Harris, Bears. With inconsistent effort, it's hard to judge his value. But he was good in the playoffs.
INSIDE LINEBACKERS
1. Barrett Ruud, Buccaneers. With effort and drive, some team will get a great bang for every buck.
2. Stephen Tulloch, Titans. He is a tackling machine and strong leader.
3. Paul Posluszny, Bills. With lack of pop, he is best suited to stay inside in a 3-4 defense.
4. Stephen Cooper, Chargers. He's an unsung upfield player in San Diego's 3-4 scheme.
5. Stewart Bradley, Eagles. Trying to regain magic of '08, injuries have made it a challenge.
6. Kirk Morrison, Jaguars. He isn't a flashy playmaker, but he is a good tackler.
OUTSIDE LINEBACKERS
1. Tamba Hali, Chiefs. He has the franchise tag, just getting warmed up as a 3-4 pass rusher.
2. James Anderson, Panthers. He filled in well on the strong side in the Panthers' 4-3 scheme.
3. Manny Lawson, 49ers. Some see a potential pass-rush star, but that's really his weakness.
4. Stephen Nicholas, Falcons. He doesn't show much flash but just gets the job done.
5. Rocky McIntosh, Redskins. Miscast in Redskins' 3-4, he is better on weak side of 4-3 defense.
6. Clint Session, Colts. He is a typical interchangeable Indy linebacker with good speed and hustle.
7. Quincy Black, Buccaneers. In a traditional 4-3, he plays the strong side well.
8. Matt Roth, Browns. He has been playing outside in a 3-4 but might work best as 4-3 end.
CORNERBACKS
1. Nnamdi Asomugha, Raiders. He's an elite shutdown and all-around corner with the high pricetag to match.
2. Ike Taylor, Steelers. Fearless, physical and savvy: Those are three pretty good attributes for his position.
3. Antonio Cromartie, Jets. He tantalizes with his talent -- especially ball skills -- but rarely lives up to it.
4. Josh Wilson, Ravens. The speedster found his niche as a nickel back in Baltimore.
5. Brent Grimes, Falcons. The Pro Bowler makes up for an undersized frame with great leaping ability and ball skills.
6. Johnathan Joseph, Bengals. If not for injuries, he would be only a notch below Asomugha.
7. Richard Marshall, Panthers. He quietly was a consistent playmaker in Carolina.
8. Chris Carr, Ravens. Although he started outside, he's better suited as nickel back and return man.
9. Corey Graham, Bears. He's a special teams standout who needs more of a chance to play on defense.
SAFETIES
1. Eric Weddle, Chargers. The Pro Bowler is a solid tackler and a budding playmaker.
2. Donte Whitner, Bills. With the way he tackles vs. the run, it's like having an extra linebacker.
3. Dawan Landry, Ravens. While Ed Reed makes the big plays vs. the pass, he has been a solid in-the-box safety.
4. Danieal Manning, Bears. He has good size and covers plenty of ground, and he also can help on kickoff returns.
5. Michael Huff, Raiders. He's a late bloomer who is starting to stuff the stat sheet.
6. Gerald Sensabaugh, Cowboys. He can do a lot of things, but his lapses in coverage in 2010 hurt his market value.
KICKERS/PUNTERS
1. Mason Crosby, Packers. He has a big leg but must be more consistent.
2. Michael Koenen, Falcons. Despite coming off a so-so season, his strength is still there: Hang time that limits returns.
3. Steve Weatherford, Jets. He was shaky in the playoffs but has a knack to drop punts inside the 20.
4. Sam Koch, Ravens. He's right there with Koenen and Weatherford.
OFF THE MARKET
The following "franchise" tagged players have signed their one-year tenders:
Chad Greenway, OLB, Vikings
David Harris, ILB, Jets
Ryan Kalil, C, Panthers
Marcedes Lewis, TE, Jaguars
Haloti Ngata, DT, Ravens
Paul Soliai, DT, Dolphins
Michael Vick, QB, Eagles
LaMarr Woodley, OLB, Steelers
OTHER DEALS
The following would-be free agents already have signed contracts:
O.J. Atogwe, S, Redskins
Champ Bailey, CB, Broncos
Ronde Barber, CB, Buccaneers
Tyron Brackenridge, CB, Jaguars
Shaun Cody, DT, Texans
Erik Coleman, S, Lions
Kennard Cox, CB, Seahawks
Owen Daniels, TE, Texans
Garrett Hartley, K, Saints
A.J. Hawk, ILB, Packers
John Henderson, DT, Raiders
Richie Incognito, G, Dolphins
D'Qwell Jackson, ILB, Browns
Rashad Jeanty, OLB, Eagles
David Jones, CB, Jaguars
Justin King, CB, Rams
Roy Lewis, CB, Seahawks
Luke McCown, QB, Jaguars
DeMario Pressley, DT, Colts
Brian Robison, DE, Vikings
Shaun Rogers, DT, Saints
Stanford Routt, CB, Raiders
Bob Sanders, S, Chargers
Richard Seymour, DT, Raiders
Jeremy Shockey, TE, Panthers
Alex Smith, TE, Browns
Isaiah Stanback, WR, Seahawks
Marcus Stroud, DT, Patriots
Pierre Thomas, RB, Saints
Seneca Wallace, QB, Browns
Derrick Ward, RB, Texans
Danny Ware, RB, Giants
Leon Washington, RB/KR, Seahawks
George Wilson, S, Bills
Coy Wire, LB, Falcons
Sporting News
DeAngelo Williams, part of a running back tandem in Carolina, can be a feature back elsewhere.
When exactly the NFL free-agent markets opens for 2011 depends on the players and owners coming to a new collective bargaining agreement, but when it does, this year's class offers many good starting options for teams looking to fill a variety of holes without breaking the bank. A look at the best players at each position in Sporting News' Super 99 rankings:
QUARTERBACKS
1. Peyton Manning, Colts. Although he hasn't signed his franchise tender, he isn't going anywhere.
2. Matt Hasselbeck, Seahawks. After a shaky regular season, he still proved he has the savvy to spark a team in the playoffs.
3. Kerry Collins, Titans. He still has a strong arm and would be a fine backup for a young starter.
RUNNING BACKS/FULLBACKS
1. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers. Of all backs, he has the most explosive potential and most impressive recent season.
2. Le'Ron McClain, Ravens. Baltimore might not be able to afford to keep the versatile blocker/power runner.
3. Ahmad Bradshaw, Giants. There are fumbling concerns, but he's right in his prime.
4. Michael Bush, Raiders. He proved he can be a fine complementary power back spelling Darren McFadden.
5. BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Patriots. He emerged as an effective and decisive power runner in 2010, and the Patriots want to keep him.
6. Darren Sproles, Chargers. You know what you get: A durable return man and great third-down back.
7. Cedric Benson, Bengals. He found a home in Cincinnati, and he likely will stay in Jay Gruden's run-heavy scheme.
8. Vonta Leach, Texans. Arian Foster would not have led the league in rushing without a good fullback.
9. Joseph Addai, Colts. Although nothing special, he can help a team that loves stretch plays.
10. Ronnie Brown, Dolphins. He can do just about everything when healthy. Unfortunately, health is a big issue.
11. Mike Tolbert, Chargers. A fullback pushed into a feature role in 2010, he might have overachieved.
12. Clinton Portis, Redskins. He's still only 29 and can be effective in a zone-blocking scheme.
13. Ricky Williams, Dolphins. He probably can't contribute too much except as a 10-touch power back.
WIDE RECEIVERS
1. Vincent Jackson, Chargers. Big and explosive, he delivers big plays all over the field.
2. Santonio Holmes, Jets. His knack for making the clutch catches makes him most attractive.
3. Sidney Rice, Vikings. Minnesota wants to keep its No. 1 receiver, and it would be interesting to see he fares without Brett Favre.
4. Malcom Floyd, Chargers. Think of him as a Vincent Jackson with a thinner frame.
5. Braylon Edwards, Jets. If more consistent and with his head on straight, he would make a lot more money this offseason.
6. Mike Sims-Walker, Jaguars. It's strange that Jacksonville didn't want to bring back an emerging receiver.
7. Steve Smith, Giants. He is a proven No. 2 possession type who can work the slot well.
8. Steve Breaston, Cardinals. He's a tough receiver with experience as a No. 1, 2 and 3.
9. Lance Moore, Saints. He is a great slot receiver who runs fine red-zone routes.
10. James Jones, Packers. If he learns to maintain focus and stop dropping balls, watch out.
11. Santana Moss, Redskins. His quickness and speed are there even with limited production.
12. Mark Clayton, Rams. He clicked with QB Sam Bradford and should return.
13. Brad Smith, Jets. He's ideal for teams still using the Wildcat and in need of slot guy, too.
14. Jacoby Jones, Texans. He has good experience as a No. 2 and No. 3 with some return ability.
15. Terrell Owens, Bengals. He continues to defy his age as a tantalizing talent. Unfortunately, he still carries the same baggage.
16. Randy Moss, Titans. See Owens, except the fact he was much less productive in 2010.
TIGHT ENDS
1. Zach Miller, Raiders. With Marcedes Lewis and Owen Daniels off the market, he's the only impact receiver here.
2. Kevin Boss, Giants. He's an exceptional blocker who can deliver as a receiver when called upon.
3. Bo Scaife, Titans. He still has good hands and can contribute multiple-tight end sets.
OFFENSIVE TACKLES
1. Doug Free, Cowboys. With standout athleticism, he could develop into an elite left tackle.
2. Matt Light, Patriots. He is on the downside of a great career.
3. Tyson Clabo, Falcons. He is a premier run blocker at right tackle.
4. Jared Gaither, Ravens. Even though he missed a season, he remains a potential cornerstone left tackle.
5. Jermon Bushrod, Saints. He had his ups and downs, but he learned a lot at left tackle the past two years.
6. Jeremy Trueblood, Buccaneers. Not a spectacular option, but he can help at right tackle.
7. Ryan Harris, Broncos. Playing opposite LT Ryan Clady, he held his own.
8. Willie Colon, Steelers. Like Gaither, he missed a season but can play on either side.
9. Jammal Brown, Redskins. He no longer can play at the Pro Bowl level he once showed in New Orleans.
GUARDS
1. Logan Mankins, Patriots. He received the franchise tag, but New England could trade him as it rebuilds the line.
2. Carl Nicks, Saints. After terrific guard-mate Jahri Evans broke the bank, he hopes it's his turn.
3. Davin Joseph, Buccaneers. If he can get healthy, he could again be a dominant player.
4. Harvey Dahl, Falcons. He is a mean and nasty mauler in the running game.
5. Daryn Colledge, Packers. He was solid for the Super Bowl champs.
6. Marshal Yanda, Ravens. He is versatile backup who also can play tackle.
7. Deuce Lutui, Cardinals. He could blossom in a power-running offense.
CENTERS
1. Olin Kreutz, Bears. He still has a mean streak and the savvy to help a young line.
2. Jonathan Goodwin, Saints. Although just a year removed from the Pro Bowl, he was fortunate to play next to two great guards.
DEFENSIVE ENDS
1. Cullen Jenkins, Packers. Injuries and age are concerns, but his versatility makes him a great 3-4 asset.
2. Charles Johnson, Panthers. He's not quite Julius Peppers, but he picked up his sack productivity.
3. Cliff Avril, Lions. Now that he benefits from Ndamukong Suh, Detroit won't let the budding pass rusher go.
4. Jason Babin, Texans. To come close to matching career year, he must stay in a "wide" pass-rush scheme.
5. Ray Edwards, Vikings. He is looking to emerge out of Jared Allen's shadow.
6. Mathias Kiwanuka, Giants. Injuries are the issue here; if healthy, he has double-digit sack potential.
7. Wallace Gilberry, Chiefs. The versatile youngster was coached up well by Romeo Crennel.
8. Shaun Ellis, Jets. Few have made the transition from 4-3 to 3-4 end as well.
DEFENSIVE TACKLES
1. Brandon Mebane, Seahawks. He will draw plenty of attention for his run-stopping ability.
2. Aubrayo Franklin, 49ers. He's the best of the 3-4 nose tackles available.
3. Barry Cofield, Giants. He is a productive defensive tackle who hasn't maxed out his potential.
4. Anthony Adams, Bears. He was the most consistent of Chicago's tackles in 2010.
5. Tommie Harris, Bears. With inconsistent effort, it's hard to judge his value. But he was good in the playoffs.
INSIDE LINEBACKERS
1. Barrett Ruud, Buccaneers. With effort and drive, some team will get a great bang for every buck.
2. Stephen Tulloch, Titans. He is a tackling machine and strong leader.
3. Paul Posluszny, Bills. With lack of pop, he is best suited to stay inside in a 3-4 defense.
4. Stephen Cooper, Chargers. He's an unsung upfield player in San Diego's 3-4 scheme.
5. Stewart Bradley, Eagles. Trying to regain magic of '08, injuries have made it a challenge.
6. Kirk Morrison, Jaguars. He isn't a flashy playmaker, but he is a good tackler.
OUTSIDE LINEBACKERS
1. Tamba Hali, Chiefs. He has the franchise tag, just getting warmed up as a 3-4 pass rusher.
2. James Anderson, Panthers. He filled in well on the strong side in the Panthers' 4-3 scheme.
3. Manny Lawson, 49ers. Some see a potential pass-rush star, but that's really his weakness.
4. Stephen Nicholas, Falcons. He doesn't show much flash but just gets the job done.
5. Rocky McIntosh, Redskins. Miscast in Redskins' 3-4, he is better on weak side of 4-3 defense.
6. Clint Session, Colts. He is a typical interchangeable Indy linebacker with good speed and hustle.
7. Quincy Black, Buccaneers. In a traditional 4-3, he plays the strong side well.
8. Matt Roth, Browns. He has been playing outside in a 3-4 but might work best as 4-3 end.
CORNERBACKS
1. Nnamdi Asomugha, Raiders. He's an elite shutdown and all-around corner with the high pricetag to match.
2. Ike Taylor, Steelers. Fearless, physical and savvy: Those are three pretty good attributes for his position.
3. Antonio Cromartie, Jets. He tantalizes with his talent -- especially ball skills -- but rarely lives up to it.
4. Josh Wilson, Ravens. The speedster found his niche as a nickel back in Baltimore.
5. Brent Grimes, Falcons. The Pro Bowler makes up for an undersized frame with great leaping ability and ball skills.
6. Johnathan Joseph, Bengals. If not for injuries, he would be only a notch below Asomugha.
7. Richard Marshall, Panthers. He quietly was a consistent playmaker in Carolina.
8. Chris Carr, Ravens. Although he started outside, he's better suited as nickel back and return man.
9. Corey Graham, Bears. He's a special teams standout who needs more of a chance to play on defense.
SAFETIES
1. Eric Weddle, Chargers. The Pro Bowler is a solid tackler and a budding playmaker.
2. Donte Whitner, Bills. With the way he tackles vs. the run, it's like having an extra linebacker.
3. Dawan Landry, Ravens. While Ed Reed makes the big plays vs. the pass, he has been a solid in-the-box safety.
4. Danieal Manning, Bears. He has good size and covers plenty of ground, and he also can help on kickoff returns.
5. Michael Huff, Raiders. He's a late bloomer who is starting to stuff the stat sheet.
6. Gerald Sensabaugh, Cowboys. He can do a lot of things, but his lapses in coverage in 2010 hurt his market value.
KICKERS/PUNTERS
1. Mason Crosby, Packers. He has a big leg but must be more consistent.
2. Michael Koenen, Falcons. Despite coming off a so-so season, his strength is still there: Hang time that limits returns.
3. Steve Weatherford, Jets. He was shaky in the playoffs but has a knack to drop punts inside the 20.
4. Sam Koch, Ravens. He's right there with Koenen and Weatherford.
OFF THE MARKET
The following "franchise" tagged players have signed their one-year tenders:
Chad Greenway, OLB, Vikings
David Harris, ILB, Jets
Ryan Kalil, C, Panthers
Marcedes Lewis, TE, Jaguars
Haloti Ngata, DT, Ravens
Paul Soliai, DT, Dolphins
Michael Vick, QB, Eagles
LaMarr Woodley, OLB, Steelers
OTHER DEALS
The following would-be free agents already have signed contracts:
O.J. Atogwe, S, Redskins
Champ Bailey, CB, Broncos
Ronde Barber, CB, Buccaneers
Tyron Brackenridge, CB, Jaguars
Shaun Cody, DT, Texans
Erik Coleman, S, Lions
Kennard Cox, CB, Seahawks
Owen Daniels, TE, Texans
Garrett Hartley, K, Saints
A.J. Hawk, ILB, Packers
John Henderson, DT, Raiders
Richie Incognito, G, Dolphins
D'Qwell Jackson, ILB, Browns
Rashad Jeanty, OLB, Eagles
David Jones, CB, Jaguars
Justin King, CB, Rams
Roy Lewis, CB, Seahawks
Luke McCown, QB, Jaguars
DeMario Pressley, DT, Colts
Brian Robison, DE, Vikings
Shaun Rogers, DT, Saints
Stanford Routt, CB, Raiders
Bob Sanders, S, Chargers
Richard Seymour, DT, Raiders
Jeremy Shockey, TE, Panthers
Alex Smith, TE, Browns
Isaiah Stanback, WR, Seahawks
Marcus Stroud, DT, Patriots
Pierre Thomas, RB, Saints
Seneca Wallace, QB, Browns
Derrick Ward, RB, Texans
Danny Ware, RB, Giants
Leon Washington, RB/KR, Seahawks
George Wilson, S, Bills
Coy Wire, LB, Falcons