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
