2013 NFL Free Agents: Middle Linebacker Rankings and Predictions
Jan 5, 2013; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers linebacker Brad Jones (59) during the NFC Wild Card playoff game against the Minnesota Vikings at Lambeau Field. The Packers won 24-10. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
1. Brad Jones, Green Bay Packers (27)
Brad Jones has developed into one of the top inside linebackers in the NFL, and the Packers can afford to let A.J. Hawk hit the open market this offseason and have Jones take over along with Desmond Bishop at inside linebacker.
Prediction: Re-signs with Packers
2. Dannell Ellerbe, Baltimore Ravens (27)
Ellerbe missed some time this past season for the Ravens, and he was sorely missed. It’s hard to believe, but it’s possible that the only returning starting linebacker for the Ravens this next year will be Terrell Suggs with their horrid cap situation and need to re-sign Joe Flacco to a long-term deal.
Prediction: Signs with Texans
Actual: Signed with Miami Dolphins
3. Brian Urlacher, Chicago Bears (35)
Can Marc Trestman really start off his time with the Bears by letting one of the most legendary players in team history go? I am not so sure he’ll allow that to happen. Urlacher will likely be back with the Bears on a short deal.
Prediction: Re-signs with Bears
Actual:
4. Rey Maualuga, Cincinnati Bengals (26)
I think the Bengals will try to re-sign Maualuga, but I’m not sure he’ll be interested in being relegated to a two-down player out of position. He may look to see what kind of deal he can get elsewhere.
Prediction: Signs with Raiders
Actual:
5. Bart Scott, New York Jets (33)
CAN’T WAIT to see where Bart Scott lands. He is still an effective run-stuffer for a 3-4 team.
Prediction: Signs with Chiefs
Actual:
6. Takeo Spikes, San Diego Chargers (36)
7. Dan Connor, Dallas Cowboys (28)
8. Jasper Brinkley, Minnesota Vikings (28)
9. Larry Grant, San Francisco 49ers (28)
10. Chase Blackburn, New York Giants (30)
11. Larry Foote, Pittsburgh Steelers (33) — Re-signed with Pittsburgh Steelers
12. Bradie James, Houston Texans (32)
13. Tim Dobbins, Houston Texans (30)
14. Brandon Siler, Kansas City Chiefs (27)
15. Keith Brooking, Denver Broncos (37)
16. Stewart Bradley, Arizona Cardinals (29) — Signed with Denver Broncos
17. Demorrio Williams, San Diego Chargers (33)
18. Moise Fokou, Indianapolis Colts (28) — Signed with Tennessee Titans
19. Paris Lenon, Arizona Cardinals (35)