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Free Agency notes

mhughes0021

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Aug 1, 2011
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28,586
notes from rotoworld.

Samson Satele - C - Raiders

The Raiders are not expected to re-sign free agent C Samson Satele.
Pro Football Focus rated Satele as a top-five run-blocking center in 2011, but the cap-strapped Raiders may view him as a luxury they can't afford. 2011 second-rounder Stefen Wisniewski can be moved back to center if needed.
 
Brandon Lloyd - WR - Rams

NFL Network's Jason LaCanfora reiterated that free agent WR Brandon Lloyd will make it to the open market market.
The Rams have reportedly begun discussions with Lloyd, but he will "get a chance to test free agent waters," LaCanfora said on Thursday's Total Access. LaCanfora calls the Patriots a "likely landing spot," citing Lloyd's relationship with coordinator Josh McDaniels. Lloyd is not a candidate for the franchise tag.
Related: Patriots
Mar 1 - 7:44 PM

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Marques Colston - WR - Saints

NFL Network's Jason LaCanfora predicted on Thursday's Total Access that the Saints will lose free agent Marques Colston if he makes it to the open market.
"There will likely be more money for him elsewhere," LaCanfora explained. Colston may be comfortable with coach Sean Payton and QB Drew Brees in New Orleans, but this is his one shot at a mega contract to set himself up for life. The Redskins, Vikings, Bears, and Jaguars could be among Colston's most fervent suitors.
Mar 1 - 7:31 PM

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Peyton Hillis - RB - Browns

NFL insider Jason LaCanfora suggested on NFL Network's Total Access that the Browns are ready to move on from free agent Peyton Hillis.
"He will be gone, he won't be back," said LaCanfora. "... Maybe he comes back on a cheaper deal at some point into the free agency period." Hillis overplayed his hand during in-season contract talks. Now riddled with question marks on attitude, commitment, and ability to stay healthy, Hillis won't land big money on the open market.
Mar 1 - 7:24 PM

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Larry Foote - LB - Steelers

NFL Network's Jason LaCanfora confirms the Steelers will likely release either ILB Larry Foote or ILB James Farrior.
Farrior's agent expect his client to get the ax, and Foote is nearly six years his junior. The most likely scenario is Foote filling in as the starter while the Steelers develop a middle linebacker prospect from the upcoming draft.
Related: James Farrior
Source: Jason LaCanfora on Twitter
Mar 1 - 7:12 PM

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Matt Flynn - QB - Packers

The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel is no longer confident that the Packers will use the franchise tag on free agent QB Matt Flynn.
Flynn's $14.4 million salary under the tag would guarantee as soon as he signs it, leaving GM Ted Thompson's hands tied unless he already has a trade worked out prior to the start of the league year on March 13. Flynn will likely draw a compensatory pick at the end of the third round, so the risk may not be worth the reward for the possibility of a second- or third-round pick from a team such as the Browns or Dolphins.
 
Lee Evans - WR - Ravens

The Ravens reportedly plan to release WR Lee Evans and CB Domonique Foxworth.
It would have been interesting to see Evans' contributions to the Ravens season had he not gone down with a foot injury late in preseason action. After failing to corral the game-winning touchdown in the AFC Championship game, he had no chance of collecting the $4.275 million due in 2012. Foxworth, due $7 million, could return at a reduced rate if his knee checks out later in the offseason.

Jake Scott - G - Titans

The Titans have had no contract talks with free agent RG Jake Scott.
It's been clear for some time that jettisoning the 31-year-old Scott will be part of the Titans' overhaul on the interior of the offensive line. If the Titans are serious about the upgrade, they will clean house at right guard and center as well.

Asante Samuel - DB - Eagles

The Philadelphia Inquirer suggests LCB Asante Samuel is on the outs with the Eagles in large part because he no longer fits the scheme.
Samuel's "bait-and-switch" style of playing off coverage and trying to jump routes doesn't mesh quite as well with a less blitz-happy Eagles defense. Philly is still going to have trouble getting much for Samuel in a trade for three reasons: 1) It's abundantly clear he's leaving and the team has little leverage, 2) Samuel is 31, and 3) He's owed a $9.4 million base salary.

Kamerion Wimbley - LB - Raiders

NFL Network's Jason La Canfora reports that the Raiders will release OLB Kam Wimbley if he does not agree to a pay cut before March 13.
Oakland would stay on the hook for $6.5 million in guaranteed salary, but could save $4.5 million under the cap. While the Raiders would prefer to keep Wimbley because he's their best pass rusher, GM Reggie McKenzie has determined that his contract simply isn't worth it. The ideal scenario is a reworked deal.

Ben Grubbs - G - Ravens

The Carroll County Times mentions the Bears and Cowboys as potential suitors for free agent LG Ben Grubbs.
Both clubs have interior offensive line needs, particularly Dallas. Chicago would likely demote former first-round pick Chris Williams out of the starting lineup should it land someone like Grubbs. Grubbs, 28, has started all but 10 games in his five-year career. He was Pro Football Focus' No. 12 guard in 2011.
 
Levi Brown - T - Cardinals

Cardinals LT Levi Brown's $6 million roster bonus is due on March 12.
A league source told Profootballtalk.com that "momentum" is pointing toward Brown getting released by that date, rather than the sides reaching a redone deal. Brown is a 28-year-old power blocker and will attract plenty of interest on a shallow market for offensive tackles. He may as well take a dip in the free agent waters before agreeing to return to the Cardinals.

LaRon Landry - DB - Redskins

A league source confirmed to Profootballtalk.com that free agent SS LaRon Landry is "expected" to leave the Redskins this offseason.
The Redskins don't appear to have any interest in re-signing Landry, and will instead roll with O.J. Atogwe, Reed Doughty, and DeJon Gomes as their top three safeties. While Landry is theoretically the top safety available after Tyvon Branch and Dashon Goldson's franchise tags, medical concerns may be standing in the way of a lucrative, long-term pay day on the open market.

Reggie Smith - DB - 49ers

The Sacramento Bee confirms that free agent S Reggie Smith is less likely to return to the 49ers after the team franchise tagged Dashon Goldson.
Smith and fellow free agent S Madieu Williams "will be looking for starting roles" when the market opens on March 13. The 75th overall pick in the 2008 draft, Smith has starting-caliber tools and could be one of the better "second-tier" free agent targets. He goes 6-foot-1, 200 and played corner at Oklahoma.

NFL.com's Mike Lombardi believes the Steelers would be unable to match any offer sheet for restricted free agent Mike Wallace that includes a first-year salary cap cost of $12 million or more.
The Steelers are currently $10 million under the salary cap. They have ways to create more space, but the $12 million first-year cap charge might still be too cumbersome. Pittsburgh could cut its losses and accept a first-round pick as compensation. Lombardi suggests the Bengals making a bid. Cincinnati would surrender its pick at No. 21 overall for the rights to Wallace.


Cliff Avril - DL - Lions

The Lions will reportedly apply the franchise tag to DE Cliff Avril on Monday, "barring a late breakthrough in talks."
No major news here. GM Martin Mayhew had all but confirmed the franchise tag as a fall-back option for Avril, who would earn roughly $10.6 million in 2012. Tagging Avril makes it less likely that free agent MLB Stephen Tulloch will be re-signed on a long-term deal.
BOOOOOOOOOO!
 
no problem
laugh.png
i know its just copying and pasting rotoworld but meh....figured it help for people that didnt want to go to another site and read thru all their posts.

Todd McClure - C - Falcons

According to Pro Football Weekly, the Falcons will be searching for new leadership on their offensive line if they don't re-sign C Todd McClure this offseason.
"Todd has had a great four years since we've been here," head coach Mike Smith said. "I can't speak to Todd in terms of what his thoughts are moving forward, but he's been an integral part of what we've accomplished. He's kind of been the cornerstone for our offensive line the last four years." McClure, 35, is set to become an unrestricted free agent and intends to continue playing. He remains more likely than not to return to the Falcons.

Vincent Jackson - WR - Chargers

Chargers GM A.J. Smith hinted in a Friday radio interview that the franchise tag won't be an option for free agent Vincent Jackson.
"Right now, I'm not real comfortable with what I see for a tag, but we haven't ruled it out yet because we have so much to do," Smith said. "(I can) tell you right out front, it's highly unlikely, and every time I look at that situation, I don't like it, I still don't like it, but we'll see." The "we'll see" is always key with Smith, but it's more likely than not V-Jax finally reaches the open market.
 
LaRon Landry - DB - Redskins The National Football Post calls free agent SS LaRon Landry's impending departure from Washington a "mutual decision."
Landry appeared to seal his fate after refusing to undergo surgery on his ailing Achilles' tendon. Although he'll surely seek a multi-year deal on the open market, Landry will likely be limited to incentive-laden, one-year "prove it" offers. Landry has appeared in just 17 games since the end of the 2009 season.

Randy Moss - WR - Titans ESPN's Adam Schefter reports free agent Randy Moss will work out for the 49ers on Monday.
It will be Moss' second known workout on the heels of his Tuesday session with the Saints, and comes after 49ers GM Trent Baalke recently refused to rule out making a run at the future Hall-of-Famer. The 49ers had one of the league's weakest receiver corps in 2011, and could lose both Josh Morgan and Ted Ginn in free agency. On the surface, Moss would be an odd fit in Jim Harbaugh's hard-nosed, team-first system, but no odder than he initially was in New England. Related: 49ersSource: Adam Schefter on Twitter Mar 11 - 9:09 AMPlayer Outlook


Levi Brown - T - Cardinals The Arizona Republic reports the Cardinals will release LT Levi Brown if the sides can't agree to a new deal before Brown's $6 million roster bonus is due on Monday.
All signs have been pointing toward Brown hitting the open market, and a breakthrough in talks with the Cardinals does not appear to be on the horizon. Releasing Brown would clear roughly $14.5 million in cap space. Although he struggled mightily in 2011, Brown could find a nice payday in a thin market for tackles.

Mike Wallace - WR - Steelers FOX Sports' Jay Glazer reports the 2012 salary cap will be "right around" $120.6 million.
It's a minimal increase over the 2011 number of $120.375 million, and will be of little help to cap-strapped teams like the Steelers. Profootballtalk.com reported last weekend the league and NFLPA were "scrambling" to increase the 2012 salary cap, but evidently those efforts were beaten back.

Mario Williams - LB - Texans FOX Sports Southwest confirms the Cowboys will ''make a run'' at free agent DE Mario Williams, but believe it's unlikely they'll get him at anything less than market value.
The Cowboys are projected to be $14 million under the salary cap this offseason, which could make signing Williams cost prohibitive given their investments at outside linebacker and needs in other areas. Williams is likely to command a contract similar to the six-year, $84 million deal Julius Peppers received from Chicago.
 
Eric Winston - T - Texans

Texans informed RT Eric Winston of his release.
The shocking move clears $5.5 million in base salary. Winston hasn't missed a start since his 2006 rookie season, and has been a key cog in the Texans' highly productive zone-blocking scheme. Despite the release, Winston won't have trouble exceeding what the Texans were going to pay him on an incredibly thin offensive tackle market. Only 28 years old, Winston should appeal to other zone-blocking clubs like the Redskins. Pro Football Focus graded Winston as a top-six right tackle last season. He was 11th overall in PFF's rankings.

Levi Brown - T - Cardinals

Cardinals released LT Levi Brown.
Brown was set to count a gargantuan $17 million against the cap during the final year of his rookie deal. The move clears roughly $14.5 million in cap space. The fifth overall pick of the 2007 draft, Brown has started all 16 games each of the past four seasons, but routinely graded out as one of the league's worst tackles. He's joining a free agent market exceptionally thin on experienced tackles, however, and could very easily land starter's money.

James Hall - DL - Rams

Rams released DE James Hall.
Hall is the fifth Rams veteran to be jettisoned ahead of Tuesday's start of free agency, and the third defensive lineman. Still a productive pass rusher, Hall was due a reasonable $2.75 million, but doesn't make sense for a rebuilding club at the age of 35. He likely won't approach the 737 snaps he played in 2011 next season, but should draw interest as a pass-rushing specialist.

LaRon Landry - DB - Redskins

According to Jeff McLane of the Philadelphia Inquirer, the Eagles "won't sign" free agent SS LaRon Landry.
In a rather flimsy report, Yahoo's Jason Cole noted that the Eagles and Bears "appear interested" in Landry. Philadelphia doesn't plan to make a big free agent splash this year, especially for a player with a red flag such as Landry's Achilles.

Mike Wallace - WR - Steelers

Steelers tendered contracts to restricted free agents WR Mike Wallace, CB Keenan Lewis, S Ryan Mundy, TE David Johnson, G Doug Legursky and G Ramon Foster.
Wallace will be guaranteed $2.7 million under the first-round tender. Along with Baltimore's Lardarius Webb, he's expected to test a restricted free agent market that hasn't seen an NFL team successfully sign an offer sheet at the first-round level in a decade. The other five Steelers are believed to have been tendered at the lowest level available to the team.

O.J. Atogwe - DB - Redskins

Redskins released FS O.J. Atogwe.
It's the first step in the Redskins regaining salary cap space after Monday's staggering blow from the league office. Atogwe was a prime candidate for release because there were no guarantees left in his $3.4 million salary for 2012. The move will count as $0 in dead money against the cap. Benched late in another injury-plagued season, Atogwe's league-wide stock has dropped precipitously over the past two years. He won't get a major contract at age 31.


Jason Brown - C - Rams

Rams released G/C Jason Brown.
The move clears $2.8 million in cap space, and is likely just the beginning of what should be a total overhaul of the Rams' offensive line. Signed to a five-year, $37.5 million deal in 2009, Brown underperformed from the get-go, grading out as one of the league's worst centers by Pro Football Focus. He was even worse in 2010 before finally being benched in favor of Tony Wragge last November. A former Raven, he'd be a low-cost flier for Baltimore if it loses LG Ben Grubbs to free agency.


Shaun Rogers - DL - Saints

The Saints are letting free agent DL Shaun Rogers and Aubrayo Franklin hit the open market.
Making $4 million, Rogers was bust in his first season in New Orleans, tallying just 22 tackles and zero sacks. Franklin was even less productive, making 17 tackles in a part-time role. If Rogers is back, it will be at a cheaper price.
 
Tim Jennings - DB - Bears

Bears agreed to terms with CB Tim Jennings on a two-year contract.
Jennings has been a 28-game starter the past two seasons after the Bears signed him for a song in 2010. Physically limited but ideally suited to Lovie Smith's defense, Jennings was one of just two starting corners not to allow a touchdown in 2011, according to Pro Football Focus. The Bears can now focus on Mario Williams and wide receivers in free agency.


Matt Schaub - QB - Texans

Owner Bob McNair confirms the Texans are not in the hunt for free agent Peyton Manning.
"We have a quarterback we're happy with," McNair said about Matt Schaub. Asked about Manning potentially landing with division rival Tennessee, McNair jokingly responded, "It really doesn't matter. We beat him when he was healthy, and we'll do it again." We suspect all reports that the Texans were in on Manning came from the QB's camp as a means to drive up his price tag.

Marcus McNeill - T - Chargers

The player rep for free agent LT Marcus McNeill insists his client is fully healthy despite McNeill's inability to pass the Chargers' exit physical.
McNeill has knee and back conditions, and the concern inside the Chargers' building was that they are chronic. "He has been cleared to play by neck and spine specialist Craig Brigham," insisted McNeill's agent, Alvin Keels. "He's 100 percent healthy." Interested teams, if there are any, will determine that on an individual basis when they bring McNeill in for physicals.

Mario Williams - LB - Texans

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Lions had discussed making a "real run" at free agent DE Mario Williams before placing the franchise tag on Cliff Avril.
Schefter concedes that cap space has been a major issue for Detroit all along, but "there was a lot of thought given in that organization to going after Mario Williams." The Lions front office has certainly shown no qualms about tying up resources in the defensive line.

Perrish Cox - DB - 49ers

49ers signed CB Perrish Cox to a two-year contract.
Cleared of sexual assault charges last Friday, the 2010 fifth-round pick will get a chance to revive his career in one of the league's most dominating defenses after sitting out 2011. Cox's signing could indicate the 49ers don't expect to re-sign free agent Carlos Rogers. Although Cox had an excellent rookie season for the Broncos in 2010, he'll likely open the year behind Tarell Brown, Chris Culliver and Tramaine Brock on the depth chart. A first-round talent, Cox does have the capability to climb that pecking order quickly if his head is on straight.


Carlos Rogers - DB - 49ers

ESPN 101 St. Louis' Howard Balzer is "hearing" the Rams plan to target free agent CB Carlos Rogers.
Coming off a career year at age 30, Rogers is believed to be seeking a four- to five-year deal worst at least $5 million annually. Capable of playing both outside and in the slot, he'd slot nicely into a secondary the Rams desperately need to improve.

Aaron Ross - DB - Giants

The Raiders are expected to target "second-tier" cornerbacks, such as Aaron Ross and Tracy Porter, in free agency.
The Saints don't have the cap space to keep Porter, and his old position coach in New Orleans is now the head coach of the Raiders. Ross won't be back with the Giants after they re-signed Terrell Thomas on Tuesday.

Ben Grubbs - G - Ravens

Free agent LG Ben Grubbs is expected to surpass Ravens RG Marshal Yanda's five-year, $32 million contract on the open market.
"Barring a last-minute deal that's not expected to transpire," Grubbs is expected to leave Baltimore for a mega contract. In addition to the previously mentioned Bears and Cowboys, the Carroll County Times

Brian Hoyer - QB - Patriots

Patriots tendered restricted free agent QB Brian Hoyer at the second-round level.
Local media had been speculating the Pats would slap a first-round tender on Tom Brady's backup, but it was never likely considering the price and the fact that New England has 2011 third-round pick Ryan Mallett waiting in the wings. Hoyer's Patriots' pedigree could earn him a few looks on the open market, but he'll most likely be back in New England next season.
 
Brandon Lloyd - WR - Rams

ESPN's Adam Schefter reports free agent Brandon Lloyd will visit the 49ers.
Lloyd received surprisingly little public interest Tuesday, sparking speculation that it was viewed as a foregone conclusion around the league that he would sign with the Patriots. Instead, he'll visit with a team still in need of upgrading and replenishing its receiver corps following the signing of Randy Moss and loss of Josh Morgan.

Robert Meachem - WR - Chargers

Chargers signed WR Robert Meachem to a four-year, $25.9 million contract.
So much for Meachem not making it out of Buffalo. The deal includes $14 million guaranteed. It's a huge contract for someone who was something of an underachiever during his four seasons in New Orleans. Meachem drew heavy interest from the get-go Tuesday, however, and is still viewed as a potential No. 1 receiver in some circles. That's what he'll have to be in San Diego after the Bolts lost Vincent Jackson to the Bucs. That, of course, bodes well for Meachem's fantasy value even though he's leaving the NFL's most prolific passing attack. He's a good bet to best his career-best line of 45/722/9 from 2009 next season.

Carl Nicks - G - Saints

Free agent LG Carl Nicks reportedly arrived in Tampa Bay for a visit late Tuesday evening.
First visits are often everything in free agency, and it appears the Bucs beat Philadelphia to the punch for the market's top guard. It's possible Nicks won't leave Tampa.

Brandon Carr - DB - Chiefs

NFL Network's Michael Lombardi reports free agent CB Brandon Carr could sign with the Cowboys as early as Tuesday night.
Carr is the top remaining cornerback on the market, and would fill a massive need for a team routinely done in by its secondary last season. It's unlikely Cowboys owner Jerry Jones will let Carr get away.
 
Carlos Rogers - DB - 49ers

49ers signed CB Carlos Rogers to a four-year, $29.3 million contract.
It's a surprising move after the 49ers took a flier on former Bronco Perrish Cox Tuesday, but hardly shocking after Rogers had a career year at age 30 last season. The 49ers will now officially return all 11 2011 defensive starters in 2012, and sport one of the league's deeper secondaries. The cornerback market is now barren barely six hours after the start of free agency.
 
Joe Mays - LB - Broncos

Free agent MLB Joe Mays will reportedly visit the Saints.
Mays joins David Hawthorne, who also has plenty of experience at middle linebacker, in visiting the Big Easy. The Saints need depth with Jonathan Vilma looking at an NFL suspension or Saints release.


Eddie Royal - WR - Broncos

The Union-Tribune San Diego hears the Chargers' odds of landing free agent WR/KR Eddie Royal are "pretty good."
Royal would take over as the Chargers' primary punt returner, but he wouldn't be a fantasy factor in San Diego. The U-T's Kevin Acee notes that Royal would be fourth on the depth chart behind Robert Meachem, Malcom Floyd, and highly-regarded 2011 third-rounder Vincent Brown.
 
Robert Gallery - G - Seahawks

Seahawks released OL Robert Gallery.
Gallery was signed to a three-year, $15 million after the lockout broke. But a groin injury kept him out of four games early in the year and he never seemed to recover. The move saves the Seahawks $4.6 million against the cap and they could be looking at old friend Steve Hutchinson as a replacement at left guard.

O.J. Atogwe - DB - Redskins

The Vikings are reportedly "revisiting [the] potential fit" of free agent FS O.J. Atogwe.
Nearly bereft of quality safeties, the Vikes are desperate for an upgrade in the back end. One potential hang-up is that the team's brass is "not he's the same player" from his best years with the Rams. They're correct.

Erin Henderson - LB - Vikings

The Vikings do not have a standing offer out to free agent WLB Erin Henderson.
The two sides are reportedly at odds over the length of a potential deal. GM Rick Spielman hinted that the team will let Henderson establish the market on his own before submitting an offer.

Mario Williams - LB - Texans

Free agent DE/OLB Mario Williams will stay overnight in Buffalo for the second straight day Wednesday.
Either Williams is on the verge of signing with Buffalo, or far more indecisive off the field than he is on it. A source tells Profootballtalk that contract negotiations are "moving toward some sort of a conclusion, good or bad." The Bills hosted Williams at a Sabres game, where fans promptly began a "We want Mario" chant, Wednesday night.


Laurent Robinson - WR - Jaguars

Jaguars signed WR Laurent Robinson, formerly of the Cowboys, to a five-year, $32.5 million contract.
The deal reportedly includes $14 million guaranteed. It's a hefty chunk of change for an injury-prone journeyman, but a necessary risk for a team that fielded one of the worst "receiver corps" in recent memory last season. If Robinson plays anything like he did for Dallas in 2011, he'll provide the Jags with a true vertical and red-zone threat. Of course, with skittish sophomore Blaine Gabbert at the controls, he'll have a hard time matching the out-of-nowhere numbers he posted for the Cowboys.

Brodney Pool - DB - Jets

Free agent FS Brodney Pool is visiting with the Cowboys Wednesday.
This is first sniff of interest Pool has generated. He has been a backup with the Jets for much of the last two seasons, but the Cowboys are desperate for free safety help next to strong safety Gerald Sensabaugh. Right now, Barry Church is their best option but he's recovering from serious shoulder surgery.
 
Eddie Royal - WR - Chargers

Chargers agreed to terms with WR/KR Eddie Royal on a three-year, $13.5 million contract.
Royal drew initial interest from the Ravens and 49ers, but the final decision came down to the Bolts versus Redskins. Once players visit San Diego, they rarely get away. Able to play the slot and return punts, Royal is a nice complement to outside receivers and vertical threats Robert Meachem, Malcom Floyd, and Vincent Brown. He won't be draftable in fantasy leagues. It will be interesting to find out why Royal got away from the Redskins are multiple reports that he had signed early in free agency.

Mario Manningham - WR - Giants

Yahoo's Jason Cole reports free agent Mario Manningham will visit the Rams Thursday night.
Manningham left 49ers headquarters without a contract late Thursday afternoon. Although he has visits scheduled with the Dolphins and Bills, the Rams appear to have line-jumped to get his attention. With four teams interested, Manningham still has a chance to hit $7 million annually in the second run of receiver signings.

Levi Brown - T - Cardinals

The Cardinals are "close" to re-signing LT Levi Brown.
The deal is expected to be announced on Friday. The Arizona Republic's Kent Somers reports Brown could be shifted to right tackle, but that would be contingent on the Cardinals finding a viable alternative at left tackle. It's unlikely in a very thin free agent tackle market, though it could happen at No. 13 overall in the draft.

Joe Mays - LB - Broncos

Free agent MLB Joe Mays will meet with the Colts after his visit with the Saints.
Mays appears to be on his way out of Denver. The Colts have a big hole at middle linebacker after releasing Gary Brackett.

Matt Flynn - QB - Packers

ESPN's Adam Schefter reports free agent QB Matt Flynn will visit the Dolphins after Friday's meeting with Seattle.
This news comes on the heels of a report by ESPN's Chris Mortensen that Miami has been effectively eliminated in the Peyton Manning chase. The two news items are certainly related. Owner Stephen Ross is determined to make an impact move at quarterback, and Flynn has a multi-year relationship with coach Joe Philbin. The Dolphins should have a substantial edge on the Seahawks for Flynn's services.


Steve Gregory - DB - Patriots

Patriots signed S Steve Gregory to a three-year contract.
The Broncos and Panthers were also interested in the long-time Bolt, but he'll head to a team that sported one of the league's most dysfunctional secondaries in 2011. The Union-Tribune San Diego's Michael Gehlken reports Gregory will be New England's starting free safety after he played strong safety for the Chargers.


Eric Winston - T - Texans

The Miami Herald reports free agent Eric Winston is looking to become the "highest-paid right tackle in the NFL."
That could winnow his list of suitors considerably, but still only 28 and coming off another big season, it's not an unachievable goal. He's set to meet with the Ravens, Rams, Chiefs and Lions after visiting the Dolphins on Wednesday.

Brady Quinn - QB - Broncos

Free agent QB Brady Quinn will visit the Jets on Friday.
We're starting to see the real cost of the Mark Sanchez "apology" extension. The Jets' hands are now tied in bringing in a legitimate insurance policy as the top backup. Instead, they're courting third-string types such as Quinn and Drew Stanton.

Reggie Nelson - DB - Bengals

Free agent FS Reggie Nelson is reportedly scheduled to visit the Jets on Friday.
Now that Brandon Meriweather has landed with the Redskins, Nelson appears to be the Jets' top target at safety. Although the team is also interested in LaRon Landry, Nelson is a better fit in deep coverage.


Tracy Porter - DB - Saints

Free agent CB Tracy Porter is reportedly visiting the Bengals on Thursday.
Porter is also drawing interest from the Raiders and Saints. Rotoworld's Evan Silva ranks Porter as the third-best cornerback remaining, behind only Ron Bartell and Aaron Ross. The latter has also visited Cincinnati.

Brandon Meriweather - DB - Redskins

Redskins signed S Brandon Meriweather to a two-year, $6 million contract.
A two-time Pro Bowler, Meriweather was released by the Patriots on the eve of training camp last season. He signed a one-year deal with the Bears one day later, but ended up getting benched after just four starts. With free agent SS LaRon Landry expected to walk and O.J. Atogwe recently handed his walking papers, Meriweather will be in for heavy snaps as long as he doesn't tank during training camp, but hasn't been an effective player since 2009.
 
Winston wants to become the highest paid tackle? Good luck.
 
Kyle Kosier - G - Cowboys

Cowboys released RG Kyle Kosier.
The move saves Dallas $1.55 million against the cap. Kosier, 33, became expendable with the signings of Nate Livings and Mackenzy Bernadeau this offseason. He was due a base salary of $2.25 million.

Mike Tolbert - RB - Chargers

Free agent Mike Tolbert is expected to sign with Pittsburgh or Carolina, according to Union-Tribune San Diego's Kevin Acee.
Tolbert is expected to meet with an undisclosed team Saturday after negotiations with the Chargers hit a standstill. Tolbert's camp apparently wants more money than San Diego is willing to offer, and the two sides remain far apart on agreeing in value.

Scott Wells - C - Rams

Scott Wells' contract with the Rams is a four-year deal worth $24 million, with $13 million guaranteed.
With incentives it can max out to $25.5 million. A top-ten center each of the past two years, Wells projects as an upgrade over G/C Jason Brown in St. Louis.

Eric Winston - T - Texans

The Rams are "out of the mix" for free agent RT Eric Winston, according to Alex Marvez of FOX Sports.
The Rams are signing center Scott Wells, leaving little money left over for Winston. The free agent will continue to make visits at least through the weekend. While the Chiefs and Dolphins remain contenders, no signing is imminent, per Marvez.


Bryant McKinnie - T - Ravens

Ravens exercised LT Bryant McKinnie's $500,000 roster bonus.
The Ravens weren't thrilled with McKinnie's run blocking last season, and they went as far as to schedule a visit with free agent Eric Winston. The bonus locks McKinnie in as Joe Flacco's blindside protector for one more season while eliminating the need for Winston.


Kamerion Wimbley - LB - Raiders

Raiders released OLB Kamerion Wimbley.
Wimbley was one of the league's top pass rushers last season, but the Raiders simply couldn't afford his $11 million 2012 salary. That's despite the fact that $6.5 million of it was fully guaranteed. Wimbley is now easily the market's top available defender, and should draw another huge contract after re-upping with the Raiders for five years and $48 million last August.

John Abraham - DL - Falcons

Falcons re-signed DE John Abraham to a three-year, $21 million contract.
Easily the top pass rusher left on the market, Abraham will return to the team where he's spent the past six years. Abraham was often on a snap count during his age-33 campaign last season, but was still one of the league's top 4-3 ends, and notched 9.5 of the Falcons' 33 sacks. His departure would have left a gaping hole along the Falcons' defensive line.

Marcus McNeill - T - Chargers

Free agent LT Marcus McNeill has visits lined up with the Falcons and Chiefs.
McNeill visited the Lions on Friday, and has been cleared to play after a neck injury limited him to nine games last season. The Lions are reportedly still interested in re-signing Jeff Backus, so the Falcons and Chiefs could be more realistic options for McNeill.

Geno Hayes - LB - Buccaneers

Free agent WLB Geno Hayes will visit the Broncos.
Hayes wasn't a priority for the Bucs this offseason, and would provide the Broncos with solid insurance for WLB D.J. Williams as he awaits a ruling in his appeal of his six-game suspension. Hayes started for the Bucs the past three years, but was benched for a three-game stretch last season.
 
Tracy Porter - DB - Saints

The Raiders will host free agent CB Tracy Porter for a visit "in the next couple of days."
Porter is tight with new Raiders coach Dennis Allen from their time together in New Orleans, and he has versatility to cover outside and the slot. Oakland is actively trying to upgrade a cornerback corps short on experience aside from Ron Bartell. Demarcus Van Dyke is currently No. 2 on the depth chart.

Jonathan Stewart - RB - Panthers

ESPN's Pat Yasinskas agrees that Jonathan Stewart is more likely to become trade bait than DeAngelo Williams if the Panthers sign free agent Mike Tolbert.
This possibility was first floated by the Charlotte Observer, and Yasinskas is a trusted voice as a former Panthers beat reporter. Stewart is entering a contract year, and the Panthers probably won't be able to retain both him and the overpaid Williams behind 2012. If the Panthers do shop Stewart before April's draft, they shouldn't settle for any less than a second-round pick.


O.J. Atogwe - DB - Redskins

The Jets have expressed interest in free agent FS O.J. Atogwe.
Atogwe looks like a fallback option after the Reggie Nelson turned down the Jets' offer Sunday night. A free safety throughout his seven-year career, Atogwe was released in a cap-related move by the Redskins last week. Turning 31 in June, Atogwe would still be an upgrade in New York on the likes of Eric Smith.

Alex Smith - QB - 49ers

According to the Denver Post, the Dolphins are currently negotiating a contract with free agent Alex Smith that would pay him $8 million annually.
The Dolphins are so desperate, after losing out on Peyton Manning and Matt Flynn, that they're now willing to significantly overpay a borderline NFL starter at near the level of franchise quarterback money. Flynn only got $6.33M annually from the Seahawks. Smith isn't as physically talented as incumbent Dolphins starter Matt Moore, and he's certainly not worth more than Flynn. At this point, it's almost as if the Fins are trying to sign a quarterback, just to sign a quarterback.


Reggie Nelson - DB - Bengals

Bengals re-signed FS Reggie Nelson.
Nelson, 28, turned down a competitive offer from the Jets. The Bengals' free safety for the past two seasons, Nelson will maintain that role after causing ten combined turnovers in 2010-2011. Nelson's market was ultimately cool because he tackles poorly and is a one-dimensional "center-field" safety, but Mike Zimmer knows how to use him. This move shores up a position that had the potential to be a real problem area in Cincinnati.


Joe Mays - LB - Broncos

Broncos re-signed MLB Joe Mays.
A two-down inside linebacker, Mays ranked third on the Broncos in tackles last season. While he can't cover a lick and possesses little value outside of thumping versus the run, Mays' return should be a plus if Denver can find capable defensive tackles to keep blockers off him at the second level. Mays will also have to compete with 2011 third-round pick Nate Irving for playing time. Expect that to be a heated camp battle in Denver.


Matt Flynn - QB - Seahawks

The base value of Matt Flynn's three-year contract in Seattle is only $19 million, with $10 million guaranteed.
The initial Flynn report claimed he received a three-year, $26 million deal. Per the Milwaukee-Journal Sentinel, however, Flynn's base contract is just $19 million with $5 million more available through incentives. It appears the remaining $2 million could be had via "unlikely to be earned" incentives. Either way, it's a much more team-friendly deal than the Cardinals gave Kevin Kolb last offseason. Even if the full "guarantee" is only $2 million less. If both Flynn and Kolb emerged as viable starting quarterbacks, the Seahawks would be paying Flynn much less than the Cardinals would for Kolb.

Alex Smith - QB - 49ers

One league source told CSN Bay Area that Alex Smith has no one to blame but himself for the precarious situation in which he he now finds himself as an unrestricted free agent.
Smith is said to be "upset" with both the 49ers' organization and his agents, despite the fact that he declined to sign a more-than-reasonable $24 million contract offer last week. "It was in Smith's best interest to sign that deal a week, 10 days ago," the source said. The source also confirmed that Smith is unlikely to get that kind of offer from the Dolphins or Seahawks.


Robert Mathis - LB - Colts

Robert Mathis will play strong-side outside linebacker in the Colts' new hybrid defensive scheme.
Mathis compared his role to outgoing SAM 'backer Jarret Johnson's. Johnson was more of a two-down, run-stopping edge-setter, though, and Mathis will stay on the field to rush the passer on nickel downs. Mathis could be an attractive target if he maintains defensive line eligibility in IDP leagues. We'd put his over/under on tackles at about 70, and sacks at around eight or nine.

LaRon Landry - DB - Redskins

The Redskins have had "little dialogue" with free agent SS LaRon Landry since the signing period began last Tuesday.
The Redskins don't want Landry back. They've signed Brandon Meriweather and Cedric Griffin in free agency, and those two players may very well open the season as Washington's starting strong and free safety, respectively. Landry visited the Patriots on Saturday. He's at the Jets' facility on Sunday, and is expected to meet with the Lions on Monday afternoon.


Geoff Schwartz - T - Panthers

Free agent G/T Geoff Schwartz will visit the 49ers.
Schwartz is set to meet with the Vikings on Monday, so it's possible he'll never make it to San Francisco. Schwartz has already visited the Lions.


Curtis Lofton - LB - Falcons

Free agent MLB Curtis Lofton will visit the Saints on Sunday.
Lofton's visit comes one day after the Saints hosted David Hawthorne and Joe Mays. Although the New Orleans Times-Picayune has reported the Saints have "no plans" to release MLB Jonathan Vilma, it's looking increasingly likely his future is not in New Orleans.
 
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