2015 NFL Free Agency: Teams That Could Steal A Top Name
By Erik Lambert
Jan 11, 2015; Green Bay, WI, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back DeMarco Murray (29) looses the ball after being tackled by Green Bay Packers inside linebacker Brad Jones (59) the Green Bay Packers in the 2014 NFC Divisional playoff football game at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports
Last year, safety Jairus Byrd was among the top free agents available. Nobody in the world expected him to sign with the New Orleans Saints, a team that was supposed to have salary cap problems. With that in mind, here is a list of similarly cash-strapped teams who might find a way to make a splash in 2015 NFL free agency.
Baltimore Ravens
Cap Space: $3.2 million
Signing: DeMarco Murray
Ozzie Newsome has never fearing going after an answer for his roster in free agency. The Baltimore Ravens don’t have a lot of room at present but they have ways to get some if needed. How much more dangerous would their offense become if they added rushing champion DeMarco Murray to the mix? It’s not impossible and could do wonders provided they add more help at receiver.
Kansas City Chiefs
Cap Space: -$1.57 million
Signing: Torrey Smith
Some difficult decision lay ahead for the Kansas City Chiefs, but it’s a big mistake to count them out of free agency. It’s possible some big cuts lay on the horizon and most would assume it’s intended to help them retain Justin Houston. However, don’t be surprised if John Dorsey and Andy Reid go after some help at wide receiver with Torrey Smith and all his speed being the prize.
St. Louis Rams
Cap Space: $-1.13 million
Signing: Rodney Hudson
Moves are already in the planning for the St. Louis Rams to free up cap space. While they won’t have enough for a huge splash, they could pull off one of the steals of free agency. Given the state of the offensive line, the Rams need help everywhere but especially the interior. Adding Rodney Hudson at center (+13.0 PFF rating) would really set them up for big things in 2015.
Houston Texans
Cap Space: $10.7 million
Signing: Devin McCourty
The New England Patriots are in a tough situation. Two of their key secondary piece are free agents in Darrelle Revis and Devin McCourty. They may not have the money to retain both. McCourty may end up the odd man out. Bill O’Brien, who has connections to him as a former Patriots assistant, would be remiss if he didn’t lure the safety to the Houston Texans where he could play behind J.J. Watt.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Cap Space: $-1.7 million
Signing: Chris Culliver
Traditionally the Pittsburgh Steelers have been a strictly draft-driven team. However, as their roster continues to overturn they have a lot of holes to fill and not enough picks at present to fill them. One acute area of need is corner. A top name is out of the question, but if the Steelers maneuver enough they can scrounge up the cash for a solid second-tier cover man like Chris Culliver, who had his best season in 2014.