Friday, February 24, 2017

Get Ready for the NFL Offseason


NFL Offseason Plans and Predictions

 

Below are my team-by-team plans and notable predictions for what will go down in the NFL over the next couple of months. I will focus specifically on free agency and the NFL Draft. Trades are included! These plans/predictions are not only based on current team information and rumors, but also on what I personally would do as a GM of the team.

 

While I won’t predict all of the cuts that are sure to take place, I will mention some players that may be cut or will be on the move. I will also stick to the big names when it comes to free agency. So there will be a lot of minor signings not mentioned in this blog.

 

Clearly, many of the players listed below will be in high demand across the NFL. But instead of having multiple teams plan on the same player, I picked one team that each player will end up on. I not only based this on salary cap space and realistic openings, but on which team I believe is the best fit for the player in question.

 

For example, A.J. Bouye will be in high demand across the NFL. He ended up with a team below that has enough cap space to sign him and is a great fit for both player and team. Other suitors had to settle on other players and/or draft picks.

 

As for the draft selections, I conducted a mock draft after I made my free agent predictions. While I didn’t do a full 7-round mock, I completed rounds 1-3 and included the draft picks below. (NOTE: The third round didn’t include compensatory picks since those have not been announced yet.)

 

I listed the teams in alphabetical order. Under each team I listed key players to re-sign, impact free agent additions, top draft picks, and a section called “Struggles, Strategy, and Summary”. In this section I discussed what the offseason plan should be, what will be hard about it, and what needs to be done that isn’t mentioned in the other categories. In all, this blog covers what each team should expect and hope for as March/April unfold. Enjoy!



Arizona Cardinals

 

Key Players to Re-Sign: Chandler Jones (OLB), Calais Campbell (DE), Evan Mathis (G), D.J. Swearinger (S), A.Q. Shipley (C), Jermaine Gresham (TE)

 

Impact Free Agent Additions: None

 

Top Draft Picks: Teez Tabor (CB, Florida), T.J. Watt (LB, Wisconsin), Brad Kaaya (QB, Miami)

 

Struggles, Strategy, and Summary: The Cardinals have a lot of free agents on their own team they must focus on. Jones and Mathis were recent additions they must re-sign. Campbell is too important to let go. And while Tony Jefferson may leave as a free agent, getting Swearinger back gets the backend somewhat together. In the draft, Tabor could become the starter opposite Peterson, Watt gives them depth at linebacker, and Brad Kaaya is a potential replacement for Carson Palmer down the road. While they are bound to make other minor moves, this offseason will be all about keeping what’s good on the roster together.

 

Atlanta Falcons

 

Key Players to Re-Sign: Patrick DiMarco (FB), Chris Chester (G), Janathan Babineaux (DT), Dwight Freeney (DE), Levine Toilolo (TE), Taylor Gabriel (WR)

 

Impact Free Agent Additions: Darrelle Revis (CB), Mario Williams (DE)

 

Top Draft Picks: Caleb Brantley (DT, Florida), Marcus Maye (S, Ohio State), Deatrich Wise Jr. (DE, Arkansas)

 

NOTE: Atlanta trades their first round pick (#31) to Chicago for a 2nd round pick (#35) and a 4th round pick (#112).

 

Struggles, Strategy, and Summary: The Falcons are a young team with a great core. Due to that, they won’t be spending big on major free agents. Re-signing their vets and saving up their cap space for future extensions will be their priority. However, Revis (soon to be cut by the Jets) and Williams (recently cut by the Dolphins) are two players that are worth signing on “prove-it” deals. In the draft, Brantley gives them some beef in the middle of their D-line, Maye provides another body in the secondary, and Wise gives them some juice getting after the QB. They also picked up an extra fourth rounder from the Bears.

 

Baltimore Ravens

 

Key Players to Re-Sign: Brandon Williams (NT), Ricky Wagner (OT), Kyle Juszczyk (FB), Lawrence Guy (DE), Jarraud Powers (CB), Matt Elam (S), Kamar Aiken (WR)

 

Impact Free Agent Additions: J.J. Wilcox (S), Brandon Marshall (WR)

 

Top Draft Picks: Takkarist McKinley (OLB, UCLA), Christian Mccaffrey (RB, Stanford), Chidobe Awuzie (CB, Colorado)

 

Struggles, Strategy, and Summary: The Ravens must focus on Williams and Wagner first in free agency. Once those guys are brought back, everything else is gravy. Adding Wilcox from Dallas would be an excellent signing. And Brandon Marshall, who I doubt is brought back by the rebuilding Jets, would give them experience at receiver. In the draft, McKinley proves youth at the pass rushing OLB position, while Mccaffrey gives them another option alongside Kenneth Dixon.

 

Buffalo Bills

 

Key Players to Re-Sign: Stephon Gilmore (CB), Zach Brown (ILB), Jordan Mills (OT), Robert Woods (WR), Marquise Goodwin (WR)

 

Impact Free Agent Additions: Colin Kaepernick (QB)

 

Top Draft Picks: Malik Hooker (S, Ohio State), Cooper Kupp (WR, Eastern Washington), Patrick Mahomes II (QB, Texas Tech)

 

NOTE: Buffalo trades a 3rd round pick (#80) and two late round picks to New England for their 2nd round pick (#63).

 

Struggles, Strategy, and Summary: The Bills will spend a lot of money to retain Gilmore and Brown, but it could be worth it. I do think they’ll lose Lorenzo Alexander and it seems they will part ways with Tyrod Taylor. They will enter the draft hoping to take a quarterback at #10 overall. What changed their plan though was Cleveland trading up ahead of them in the draft and taking Deshaun Watson (see Browns). That left them with Mahomes II in the late second round (after trading up), and led them to sign Kaepernick as a short-term solution. I do think adding Hooker and Kupp were great draft additions however.

 

Carolina Panthers

 

Key Players to Re-Sign: Kawann Short (DT), Charles Johnson (DE), Ted Ginn (WR), A.J. Klein (LB), Mike Remmers (OT), Jonathan Stewart (RB), Andrew Norwell (G)

 

Impact Free Agent Additions: A.J. Bouye (CB), Victor Cruz (WR)

 

Top Draft Picks: Leonard Fournette (RB, LSU), Charles Harris (DE, Missouri), Josh Jones (S, NC State)

 

Struggles, Strategy, and Summary: Carolina has to make decisions up front. Short is vital to this team so I think he’ll return. Johnson and Mario Addison are free agents, and I think they go with the older, cheaper Johnson so they can invest in their secondary. That investment will be in the form of A.J. Bouye, the best free agent cornerback in 2017. They didn’t pay up for Norman last year, it cost them, and so they can make amends by doing this. In the draft, Fournette gives them an upgrade over Stewart, who will be 30+ years old next season. Harris gives them a young pass rusher since I think they’ll lose Addison. Josh Jones is an intriguing prospect that could be another quality addition in the secondary.

 

Chicago Bears

 

Key Players to Re-Sign: Sam Acho (OLB), Brian Hoyer (QB)

 

Impact Free Agent Additions: Tony Jefferson (S), Logan Ryan (CB), Tyrod Taylor (QB), Mychal Rivera (TE)

 

Top Draft Picks: Jonathan Allen (DE), Garett Bolles (OT, Utah), Curtis Samuel (WR, Ohio State)

 

NOTE: Atlanta trades their first round pick (#31) to Chicago for a 2nd round pick (#35) and a 4th round pick (#112).

 

Struggles, Strategy, and Summary: Out with the old and in with the new. I think Cutler, Houston, and Royal are potential cuts for the Bears. With that cap space, look for Chicago to be aggressive addressing their needs. Tyrod Taylor fills the need at quarterback and gives them a player to build around. Tony Jefferson and Logan Ryan give the secondary a big boost. Rivera adds depth at tight end. The downside is that I do think they’ll lose Alshon Jeffery if he hits the open market. Jonathan Allen would be a great pick at #3 in the first round of the NFL Draft. Bolles, whom I have them trading up for, would hopefully solve their issues at tackle. Curtis Samuel gives them another young receiver to mix in with Meredith, White, and Wilson.

 

Cincinnati Bengals

 

Key Players to Re-Sign: Kevin Zeitler (G), Dre Kirkpatrick (CB), Brandon LaFell (WR)

 

Impact Free Agent Additions: Johnathan Hankins (DT), Russell Okung (OT)

 

Top Draft Picks: Derek Barnett (DE, Tennessee), Obi Melifonwu (S, Connecticut), JuJu Smith-Schuster (WR, USC), Antonio Garcia (G, Troy)

 

NOTE: Cincinnati trades their 1st round pick (#9) to Cleveland for a 1st round pick (#12) and a 2nd round pick (#47).

 

Struggles, Strategy, and Summary: The Bengals have some key players they will try and bring back, most noticeably on the offensive line. While I think they’ll re-sign Zeitler, they may lose Whitworth. I have them replacing him with Okung however. I also have them replacing Peko with Hankins on the defensive line. In the draft, I have them acquiring an extra second rounder from Cleveland by trading down in the first round. This allows them to get a lot of young talent. Barnett and Melifonwu fill positions of need. Smith-Shuster gives them another option at wide receiver as they continue searching for a true #2 opposite AJ Green. Garcia adds depth to the o-line.

 

Cleveland Browns

 

Key Players to Re-Sign: Terrelle Pryor (WR), Austin Pasztor (OG), Stephen Paea (DT), Britton Colquitt (P), Isaiah Crowell (RB), Jamie Collins (LB)

 

Impact Free Agent Additions: Trumaine Johnson (CB), Riley Reiff (OT), Larry Donnell (TE)

 

Top Draft Picks: Myles Garrett (DE, Texas A&M), Deshaun Watson (QB, Clemson), Budda Baker (S, Washington), Jaleel Johnson (DT, Iowa)

 

NOTE: Cincinnati trades their 1st round pick (#9) to Cleveland for a 1st round pick (#12) and a 2nd round pick (#47).

 

Struggles, Strategy, and Summary: The Browns have a lot of cap space, which they should first use to bring back key free agents. This includes Jamie Collins (done already) and Terrelle Pryor. I also expect them to make a couple splashy signings, which I have in the form of Johnson and Reiff. Johnson gives them a very quality corner to pair with Haden (if he ever stays healthy), and Reiff fills a need at tackle. While I having them surrendering a second round pick to the Bengals to secure their QB, I think they’d be thrilled with this draft. Garrett is a stud that can help transform the defense. Watson becomes the new face of the franchise. Baker and Johnson give them quality options on defense. If Watson can finally give them good quarterback play, the Browns may no longer be the NFL’s doormat.

 

Dallas Cowboys

 

Key Players to Re-Sign: Barry Church (S), Terrance Williams (WR), Brandon Carr (CB), Gavin Escobar (TE), Morris Claiborne (CB)

 

Impact Free Agent Additions: DeMarcus Ware (DE)

 

Top Draft Picks: Jabrill Peppers (S, Michigan), Dawaune Smoot (DE, Illinois), Isaiah Ford (WR, Virginia Tech)

 

Struggles, Strategy, and Summary: The Cowboys don’t have a lot of wiggle room with the cap, but space can be created. Recently they re-structured two deals (Smith and Frederick) to create much-needed space, and moving Tony Romo (or cutting him) will create more. This will allow them to keep a lot of their secondary in place, seeing as they played so well in 2016. I think Church, Carr, and Claiborne will all be brought back. Their selection of Peppers in the first round is made to replace Wilcox. I also think they need to add some pass rushers so bringing back Ware on a veteran’s deal would be great, as would taking Smoot in the second round of the draft. Many think linebacker could be upgraded, but remember they draft Jaylon Smith last year, and he should be healthy this season. On offense, Ford (3rd round pick) gives them a young receiver that could emerge as the number two guy behind Dez.

 

Denver Broncos

 

Key Players to Re-Sign: Sylvester Williams (DT), Jordan Norwood (WR), Brandon McManus (K)

 

Impact Free Agent Additions: Tony Romo (QB), J.C. Tretter (G), Ryan Clady (OT), Jacob Tamme (TE)

 

Top Draft Picks: O.J. Howard (TE, Alabama), Alvin Kamara (RB, Tennessee), Elijah Qualls (DT, Washington)

 

Struggles, Strategy, and Summary: The Broncos will not trade for Tony Romo, but they will be a major player if he’s cut. And that’s what I think will happen. Upgrading the offensive line is also paramount, so Tretter and Clady were added. In the draft, I had them focus on adding offensive weapons. Howard and Kamara are two exciting prospects that could give this offense some life. Plus, I think Romo would appreciate another solid target to throw to in Howard.

 

Detroit Lions

 

Key Players to Re-Sign: Larry Warford (G), Anquan Boldin (WR), Devin Taylor (DE), Tyrunn Walker (DT)

 

Impact Free Agent Additions: Nick Fairley (DT), Doug Martin (RB)

 

Top Draft Picks: Zach Cunningham (OLB, Vanderbilt), Desmond King (CB, Iowa), Jermaine Eluemunor (OT, Texas A&M)

 

Struggles, Strategy, and Summary: Larry Warford is a player they must get under contract again. I think Boldin is actually important also. Re-uniting with Nick Fairley is a mutually beneficial move. And Doug Martin gives them another running back to try out, seeing as they never settle on anyone. The second level of their defense needs to get better also, and it will with draft picks like Cunningham and King. Finding options at tackle is something to look for in the mid to late rounds of the draft, such as Eluemunor.

 

Green Bay Packers

 

Key Players to Re-Sign: T.J. Lang (G), Nick Perry (OLB), Micah Hyde (S), Jared Cook (TE), Eddie Lacy (RB)

 

Impact Free Agent Additions: Tramon Williams (CB)

 

Top Draft Picks: Quincy Wilson (CB, Florida), Pat Elflein (C, Ohio State), Alex Anzalone (ILB, Florida)

 

Struggles, Strategy, and Summary: The Packers typically don’t bring in a lot of outside players, and I think that pattern will continue this year. Their focus will be on re-signing their key guys. Lang, Perry, Hyde, Cook, and Lacy are all key guys. I do have them losing Tretter though. He’ll be replaced by Elflein, whom I have them drafting in the second round. Improving at corner should be another clear focus. Adding Williams (a former Packer) and taking Wilson in the first round would be two very smart moves. Look for them to try and find bargains at linebacker as well.

 

Houston Texans

 

Key Players to Re-Sign: Quintin Demps (S), Shane Lechler (P), John Simon (OLB), Nick Novak (K)

 

Impact Free Agent Additions: Jimmy Garoppolo (QB), Sam Shields (CB)

 

Top Draft Picks: Jordan Leggett (TE, Clemson), Kevin King (CB, Washington)

 

NOTE: Houston trades their 1st round pick (#24) to New England for QB Jimmy Garoppolo.

 

Struggles, Strategy, and Summary: This offseason is all about improving at quarterback. That could mean getting Brock to improve. But I think they look for an outside solution. Garoppolo is available for the right price. Seeing as they have all the pieces except a QB, I think a first rounder is worth it for them. It would be tight money-wise, but Brock could be cut after this season when the bulk of his guarantees end, which then would allow them to sign Jimmy long-term. What that means this offseason is that they may lose AJ Bouye, which is why I have them adding Sam Shields and drafting Kevin King. Leggett is a solid TE option, which is a position they could improve at.

 

Indianapolis Colts

 

Key Players to Re-Sign: Mike Adams (S), Darius Butler (CB), Jack Doyle (TE), Erik Walden (OLB), Zach Kerr (DT)

 

Impact Free Agent Additions: Melvin Ingram (OLB), Dontari Poe (NT), Rolando McClain (ILB), Rashad Jennings (RB)

 

Top Draft Picks: Ryan Ramczyk (OT, Wisconsin), Ryan Anderson (LB, Alabama), Justin Evans (S, Texas A&M)

 

Struggles, Strategy, and Summary: The Colts have a lot of money to spend, and a lot of needs to fill. First, they suck at stopping the run, which is why Dontari Poe would be an amazing fit. Second, they struggle rushing the passer consistently, which is why Melvin Ingram would be a terrific signing. They need better linebackers also, so McClain would be a solid add as well. Jennings is another new addition to give them another running back. In the first round of the draft, the offensive line gets another needed piece with Ramczyk, the best tackle prospect. Anderson is great value in the second round, and Evans gives them youth in the secondary.

 

Jacksonville Jaguars

 

Key Players to Re-Sign: Johnathan Cyprien (S), Abry Jones (DT), Tyson Alualu (DE)

 

Impact Free Agent Additions: Branden Albert (OT), Mario Addison (DE), Mike Glennon (QB), Kiko Alonso (ILB), Ryan Mathews (RB)

 

Top Draft Picks: Marshon Lattimore (CB, Ohio State), Dan Feeney (G, Indiana), Evan Engram (TE, Mississippi)

 

Struggles, Strategy, and Summary: The trade for Albert and the trading away of Julius Thomas has already happened. Abry Jones has already be re-signed also. Cyprien should be the next guy to get re-signed. Mario Addison would be a fantastic add, as he’s coming off a terrific season with Carolina getting after the passer. Alonso is worth a prove-it deal, as is Mathews. If healthy, those two are solid football players. Glennon gives them insurance in case Bortles is brutal once again. In the draft, I had them take Lattimore to replace Amukamara, Engram to replace and Thomas, and improve the interior of their line with Feeney.

 

Kansas City Chiefs

 

Key Players to Re-Sign: Eric Berry (S), Kendall Reyes (DE), Cairo Santos (K)

 

Impact Free Agent Additions: Domata Peko (DT)

 

Top Draft Picks: Sidney Jones (CB, Washington), ArDarius Stewart (WR, Alabama), Tyus Bowser (OLB, Houston)

 

Struggles, Strategy, and Summary: I highly doubt they can bring back both Berry and Poe, so I think they will and should commit to Berry. In free agency, I think they will add to their defensive line in the form of Peko, who is not the same player as Poe, but should help offset the loss. In the draft, Jones gives them a second corner opposite Peters, Stewart another needed weapon since Maclin is no longer a top notch player, and Bowser gives them a brighter future at linebacker.

 

Los Angeles Chargers

 

Key Players to Re-Sign: Jahleel Addae (S), Danny Woodhead (RB), Manti Te’o (LB), Dontrelle Inman (WR), Damien Square (DT)

 

Impact Free Agent Additions: Captain Munnerlyn (CB), Connor Barwin (DE), Case Keenum (QB)

 

Top Draft Picks: Solomon Thomas (DE, Stanford), Jarrad Davis (LB, Florida), Roderick Johnson (OT, Florida State)

 

Struggles, Strategy, and Summary: The big change for the Chargers, besides moving to LA, is switching to a 4-3 defense. Due to that, I expect them to focus on the front seven quite a bit. Losing Ingram to the Colts was in large part because of this switch, but LA will respond. I have them re-signing Te’o and Square, adding Barwin, and drafting Thomas and Davis in the first couple rounds of the draft. These moves would massively help overhaul that front seven and give Joey Bosa added help up front. The secondary is also addressed by bringing back Addae and signing Munnerlyn from the Vikings. On offense, Keenum is brought in to be the understudy to Rivers, and Johnson gives them a tackle with a lot of upside.

 

Los Angeles Rams

 

Key Players to Re-Sign: Dominique Easley (DT), T.J. McDonald (S), Kenny Britt (WR), Greg Zuerlein (K)

 

Impact Free Agent Additions: John Sullivan (C), Justin Gilbert (CB), Kendall Wright (WR), Geno Smith (QB)

 

Top Draft Picks: Forrest Lamp (G, Western Kentucky)

 

Struggles, Strategy, and Summary: Let’s hope the Rams have a better offseason than what I’m predicting here. Losing Trumaine Johnson may end up happening, but keeping the other key players is therefore critical. I have them bringing in a trio of offensive players in Sullivan, Wright, and Smith. The first two would play a lot, while the latter would give them a backup to Goff. Speaking of Goff, that trade allows them to only draft one player in the first few rounds. I have them taking Lamp to boost the offensive line. Hopefully these moves and a new head coach get the offense performing better.

 

Miami Dolphins

 

Key Players to Re-Sign: Andre Branch (DE), Spencer Paysinger (LB), Jelani Jenkins (LB), Kenny Stills (WR)

 

Impact Free Agent Additions: Julius Thomas (TE), Stefen Wisniewski (G), Kevin Minter (ILB), D’Qwell Jackson (ILB)

 

Top Draft Picks: Malik McDowell (DT, Michigan State), Gareon Conley (CB, Ohio State)

 

Struggles, Strategy, and Summary: The Albert/Thomas trades are over and done with, so now the team should focus on Stills and Branch. Once that’s done, linebacker is a big area of need. Bringing back Paysinger and Jenkins is nice, but adding Minter and Jackson in free agency is nicer. With Tunsil expected to move over to replace Albert, I have the team signing Wisniewski to fill in at guard. Hopefully Pouncey is back at center this year also (injury). As for the draft, they should give Suh some help up front and draft someone like McDowell. Conley gives them a viable option at corner. If finances are handled well, look for them to add a pass rusher or two at some point as well via free agency or the draft.

 

Minnesota Vikings

 

Key Players to Re-Sign: Adrian Peterson (RB), Joe Berger (C), Cordarrelle Patterson (KR), Brandon Fusco (G), Jeff Locke (P), Matt Kalil (OT), Andre Smith (OT), Terence Newman (CB), Chad Creenway (LB)

 

Impact Free Agent Additions: Mike Nugent (K)

 

Top Draft Picks: Zay Jones (WR, East Carolina), Dorian Johnson (G, Pittsburgh), Dede Westbrook (WR, Oklahoma)

 

Struggles, Strategy, and Summary: The Vikings don’t have a lot of cap space but I think they should re-sign or re-structure many of their guys. The offensive line struggled at times which should help in negotiations to keep their costs low when re-signing. These have been very solid players in years past, so I expect their play to bounce back. Peterson needs to be kept, but not at his current price. Re-structuring his deal is critical. With the defense one of the best units in football, look for them to add to their offense in the draft. Receivers Jones and Westbrook give them additional firepower to partner with Diggs, and Johnson could be insurance in case injuries or streaks of bad play hit the o-line once again.

 

New England Patriots

 

Key Players to Re-Sign: Dont’a Hightower (ILB), Martellus Bennett (TE), Alan Branch (DT), Jabaal Sheard (DE), Sebastian Vollmer (OT), LeGarrette Blount (RB), James Develin (FB), Chris Long (DE), Duron Harmon (S), Ryan Mallett (QB), Malcolm Butler (CB)

 

Impact Free Agent Additions: Alterraun Verner (CB)

 

Top Draft Picks: Marlon Humphrey (CB, Alabama), Taco Charlton (DE, Michigan), Dorian Johnson (G, Pittsburgh), Zach Banner (OT, USC)

 

NOTE: Houston trades their 1st round pick (#24) to New England for QB Jimmy Garoppolo.

 

Struggles, Strategy, and Summary: The rich get richer this offseason. The Patriots, fresh off winning another Super Bowl have some of the most cap space in the league. As they typically do, I see them locking up most of their key free agents. The one I had getting away was Logan Ryan, but he was replaced by recently cut Verner. They also acquired an extra first rounder in a deal with Houston. This allowed them to own the draft. Humphrey and Charlton were two first round selections that make the defense even better. Johnson and Banner give the offensive line an infusion of youth, which will pay off in the years to come.

 

New Orleans Saints

 

Key Players to Re-Sign: Jahri Evans (G), Tim Lelito (G), Paul Kruger (OLB), Roman Harper (S), John Kuhn (FB)

 

Impact Free Agent Additions: Prince Amukamara (CB), Earl Mitchell (DT), Matt Barkley (QB), Lorenzo Alexander (OLB)

 

Top Draft Picks: Reuben Foster (ILB, Alabama), Carl Lawson (DE, Auburn), Davis Webb (QB, California)

 

Struggles, Strategy, and Summary: The best things New Orleans can do this offseason is stockpile weapons on defense. Sure they should re-sign a couple of their own, most notably guards Evans and Lelito, but the defense must improve on a large scale. That’s why I had them signing Amukamara, Mitchell, and Alexander. All of them are coming off fine seasons and would be upgrades to their defense. I then had them drafting Foster and Lawson in the first two rounds. Foster will be their defensive leader for years to come, and Lawson will give them another impact pass rusher. Davis Webb, who shined in the Senior Bowl, and Matt Barkely, who played decent in Chicago at the end of the year, give them a possible future past Drew Brees.

 

New York Giants

 

Key Players to Re-Sign: Leon Hall (S), Marshall Newhouse (OT), Keenan Robinson (LB), Kelvin Sheppard (LB), Robbie Gould (K)

 

Impact Free Agent Additions: Jamaal Charles (RB), Jared Odrick (DE)

 

Top Draft Picks: David Njoku (TE, Miami), DeMarcus Walker (DE, Florida State), Taywan Taylor (WR, Western Kentucky)

 

Struggles, Strategy, and Summary: The Giants must make a decision on JPP. Will they pay the man big money or let him leave? Since they paid Vernon last year, I think they’ll have to let him walk. I also think they’ll be forced to let Hankins go since they already have Harrison on the interior. That’s why Jared Odrick, a versatile defensive lineman, is a big pick-up. Jamaal Charles is worth the risk also as he could kick-start that offense and the run game. In the draft, Njoku gives them a major weapon for Eli Manning to utilize, and Walker gives them another player to replace JPP and Hankins on the defensive line.

 

New York Jets

 

Key Players to Re-Sign: Ben Ijalana (OT)

 

Impact Free Agent Additions: Jarvis Jones (OLB), Michael Floyd (WR), Steven Hauschka (K)

 

Top Draft Picks: Mitch Trubisky (QB, North Carolina), Jourdan Lewis (CB, Michigan), Malachi Dupre (WR, LSU)

 

Struggles, Strategy, and Summary: The Jets don’t have a lot of spending money, even if they have some cap casualties such as Revis. They should buy low on players with upside like Jones, Floyd, and Hauschka (since they just released Folk). The draft is where they will make their money this offseason. Trubisky will become the hope of their franchise, Lewis gives them a corner to replace Revis, and Dupre will help replace the production lost with Marshall.

 

Oakland Raiders

 

Key Players to Re-Sign: Perry Riley (ILB), Latavius Murray (RB), Malcolm Smith (LB), D.J. Hayden (CB)

 

Impact Free Agent Additions: Paul Soliai (DT), Ryan Fitzpatrick (QB), Eddie Royal (WR)

 

Top Draft Picks: Tim Williams (LB), Jake Butt (TE, Michigan), Carlos Watkins (DT, Clemson)

 

Struggles, Strategy, and Summary: KISS… Keep It Simple Stupid! The majority of their cap space should be saved and used to extend Carr and Mack when the time comes. Sure they should try and re-sign Riley, Murray, Smith, and Hayden. I also had them making minor moves with vets such as signing Soliai (depth), Fitzpatrick (better backup), and Royal (upgrade in the slot). But as they have done in recent years, they nailed this draft. Williams and Butt could be starters from day one. Watkins will be critical in providing competition on the DL. Simple and done!

 

Philadelphia Eagles

 

Key Players to Re-Sign: Bennie Logan (DT), Nolan Carroll (CB), Trey Burton (TE)

 

Impact Free Agent Additions: DeSean Jackson (WR), Lamarr Houston (DE)

 

Top Draft Picks: Dalvin Cook (RB, Florida State), Adoree Jackson (CB, USC)

 

Struggles, Strategy, and Summary: Despite deciding to keep Peters, this is a team that will have cap casualties. This will allow them to go sign DeSean Jackson and give Wentz a proven weapon. This reunion seems destined to happen. Houston (a potential cap cut by Chicago), would be a nice cheap add also. Adding Dalvin Cook in the draft would be a big win, as he would start in the backfield for the next decade. Jackson is a capable corner that could help right away also.

 

Pittsburgh Steelers

 

Key Players to Re-Sign: Le’Veon Bell (RB), Ross Cockrell (CB), James Harrison (OLB), Lawrence Timmons (ILB), Markus Wheaton (WR), Landry Jones (QB)

 

Impact Free Agent Additions: None

 

Top Draft Picks: Haason Reddick (OLB, Temple), Marcus Williams (S, Utah), Joe Mixon (RB, Oklahoma)

 

Struggles, Strategy, and Summary: Pittsburgh is another team that has limited money to spend. Getting Bell under contract again is the clear priority. Once that is done, some of their older players should be retained to finish off their careers. That takes us to the draft, where they have to improve at linebacker and on the backend. That’s why Reddick and Williams make the most sense early on. Joe Mixon is drafted as Bell insurance and because Deangelo’s time in this league is nearing an end. In the 3rd round, he’s worth the trouble.

 

San Francisco 49ers

 

Key Players to Re-Sign: Gerald Hodges (ILB), Glenn Dorsey (DE), Quinton Patton (WR), Phil Dawson (K)

 

Impact Free Agent Additions: Ronald Leary (G), Jason Kelce (C), Vincent Jackson (WR), Jay Cutler (QB), Nick Folk (K)

 

Top Draft Picks: DeShone Kizer (QB, Notre Dame), John Ross (WR, Washington), Cameron Sutton (CB, Tennessee)

 

Struggles, Strategy, and Summary: This is a team that’s tough to predict. New coach, new GM, and lots of changes sure to come. I don’t expect anything that large in free agency though. This will be a learning year on that front and the draft will be the most important thing. I do have them signing some vets, including Jay Cutler to be a short-term fill-in. No, I don’t expect Kaep to be back. In the draft, I have them taking Kizer at #2 overall. I think he’ll prove to be the best QB prospect in the draft, and is clearly the one with the most upside. Since he can sit behind Cutler for a year or two, drafting on upside is doable. Ross and Sutton were drafted as best available guys that will play a role in the future.

 

Seattle Seahawks

 

Key Players to Re-Sign: Bradley Sowell (OT), Tony McDaniel (DT), Luke Willson (TE)

 

Impact Free Agent Additions: Andrew Whitworth (OT), Chris Conte (S), Blair Walsh (K)

 

Top Draft Picks: Cam Robinson (OT, Alabama), Chris Wormley (DT, Michigan), Chris Godwin (WR, Penn State)

 

Struggles, Strategy, and Summary: How can they improve the offensive line? That’s the question that needs answered this offseason. They were average on the interior, but atrocious on the ends. Whitworth (free agent) and Robinson (draft pick), would be a great way to address this need. Nothing else is that large of a deal, but Wormley and Godwin could be future steals.

 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

 

Key Players to Re-Sign: Bradley McDouglad (S), Joe Hawley (C), Jacquizz Rodgers (RB), Cameron Brate (TE)

 

Impact Free Agent Additions: Jason Pierre-Paul (DE), Josh Gordon (WR), Kelvin Beachum (OT), Blaine Gabbert (QB), Darren McFadden (RB), Christine Michael (RB), Leodis McKelvin (CB)

 

Top Draft Picks: Corey Davis (WR, Western Michigan), D’Onta Foreman (RB, Texas), Damontae Kazee (CB, San Diego State)

 

Struggles, Strategy, and Summary: This is a team on the up and up. Their 9-7 finish nearly got them into the playoffs already, but this is a team that’s right on the edge of breaking through. They have some great young players, lots of cap space, and a young franchise QB to build around. I see them being aggressive again this offseason, this time snagging JPP, Beachum, Gordon, McFadden, and McKelvin. All of them would play a role, but JPP could help transform the defense in a big way. Josh Gordon should only be signed to a short-term, low-risk deal, but man could he be a factor alongside Mike Evans. Then, to take Corey Davis in the draft is the icing on the cake. Foreman is another prospect I love, and he could make the signings of Rodgers, McFadden, and Michael pointless. I’d buy stock in the Bucs right now.

 

Tennessee Titans

 

Key Players to Re-Sign: Chance Warmack (G), Anthony Fasano (TE), Karl Klug (DE)

 

Impact Free Agent Additions: Alshon Jeffery (WR), Datone Jones (OLB), William Gholston (DE)

 

Top Draft Picks: Jamal Adams (S, LSU), Tre’Davious White (CB, LSU), Gerald Everett (TE, South Alabama), Anthony Walker Jr. (ILB, Northwestern)

 

Struggles, Strategy, and Summary: Boom! Mariota has a #1 receiver. I expect them to go hard after Alshon if he hits free agency. The rest of their offseason should be spent adding impact young players and depth at key positions. Adams and White could seriously turn the Titan secondary into something special. Everett would be a long-term replacement for Delanie Walker in the years to come. If these moves do take place, I would expect a playoff appearance next season.

 

Washington Redskins

 

Key Players to Re-Sign: Chris Baker (DE), Kirk Cousins (QB), Pierre Garcon (WR), Vernon Davis (TE), Junior Galette (OLB), Ziggy Hood (NT), Cullen Jenkins (DE)

 

Impact Free Agent Additions: None

 

Top Draft Picks: Mike Williams (WR, Clemson), Raekwon McMillan (ILB, Ohio State), Dalvin Tomlinson (DT, Alabama)

 

Struggles, Strategy, and Summary: This is the offseason of Kirk Cousins. Nothing else really matters except keeping your franchise QB on the roster. Of course, drafting Mike Williams is nothing to sneer at. He would be more than a replacement for Jackson, but an upgrade. Who cares that they took a WR in the first round a year ago. If Williams falls, as he did in my mock, you take him. That’s just as easy of a decision as it is to lock of Cousins to a long-term deal. Don’t overthink it Washington!

 

So there you have it. Some basic predictions and plans for the offseason. In the weeks to come, we’ll see what actually transpires. It should be exciting no matter what!

 

By: The Sports Guys