Analysis: Who are the best unsigned players left on the market?
By PFW staff
June 28, 2007
PFW asks associate editor Mike Wilkening for his take on NFL topics of interest.
Ranking the best available free agents
As NFL coaches and executives get in their final vacations before the start of training camp in late July, it's time to take a look at what's left on the free-agent market. For the purposes of this discussion, we'll exclude unsigned franchise free agents as well as restricted free agents who have yet to sign their tender offers:
1. LB Al Wilson — A standout inside 'backer and leader, Wilson would be a major asset to any defense if healthy, but a chronic neck condition has his future in limbo. Concerns about his neck killed a potential trade to the Giants in March. For now, the former Denver star's career is on hold, and there has been little buzz about him of late.
2. RB Corey Dillon — Racked up 4.1 yards a carry last season, proof there's still life left in his legs. Green Bay may have interest, but Dillon would likely have to be content with a part-time role (and a salary befitting a part-time player).
3. DT Tank Johnson — The Bears tired of his off-field problems, and he's facing at least a six-game suspension. Market may not heat up for him until more is learned about his recent arrest in Arizona. On talent alone, he belongs on a roster, and he was well-liked by his Chicago teammates. But the risk likely outweighs the reward for many clubs. Dallas has been mentioned as a potential suitor.
4. DE Grant Wistrom — Reportedly considering retirement, but there's a feeling he could still contribute as a backup, perhaps with DL-needy St. Louis.
5. LB Randall Godfrey — At 34, doesn't have much left to give, but this savvy veteran could still fill a part-time role as a 3-4 inside linebacker. Could a team like New England, which has smartly and successfully used veteran LBs in the past, have interest?
6. OG Milford Brown — Has started 24 games the last two seasons, and teams looking for interior-line depth could do worse.
7. WR Troy Brown — It's hard to think of him anywhere but New England, but does Patriots' offseason WR shopping spree leave him out of the picture?
8. S Derrick Gibson — Our AFC West expert, Trent Modglin, says the former Raider can help a team as an in-the-box safety. However, his limitations in coverage hurt his marketability.
9. LB Brandon Short — Short, who will be 30 in July, might be attractive to a team looking to bolster its OLB depth. Missed seven games last season with a quadriceps injury, but that was the first time he was out of action since 2000.
10. OG Cosey Coleman — Like Milford Brown, he could be a useful backup.
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