NFL Free Agency: New Homes For DT Phil Taylor

Aug 9, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; Cleveland Browns defensive tackle Phil Taylor (98) against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

One of the bigger surprises of the roster cutting period was the Cleveland Browns waving goodbye to former 1st round pick Phil Taylor. The defensive tackle was the last remaining piece of their 2011 draft-day trade with the Atlanta Falcons for Julio Jones. Now after an injury-plagued 2014, he enters NFL free agency in hopes of getting his career back on track.

Here are a few teams to watch closely in the next few days.

Indianapolis Colts

Scooping up former Browns is something that doesn’t scare Indianapolis Colts GM Ryan Grigson. He did so with linebacker D’Qwell Jackson after all. Given the state of the teams’ run defense, still struggling since last season, they really could use some help up front. So far the team has allowed 121 yards per game on the ground. Taylor, when healthy has shown he can be a steady force in the middle who is a great fit for their 3-4 system.

Chicago Bears

Injuries would be the primary culprit for the Chicago Bears entering the fray. Not only have they lost starting nose tackle Jeremiah Ratliff to a three-game suspension, but an ankle problem suffered in their loss to the Bengals threatens to keep him out even longer. On top of that, prized rookie 2nd round pick Eddie Goldman suffered a concussion in the same game. Their defense, still adjusting to the 3-4 for the first time in franchise history, is getting very thin in the middle.

Taylor would provide them with much-needed insurance as well as experience.

Seattle Seahawks

Honestly, at this point nobody should count out the Seattle Seahawks as a possible landing spot for any notable veteran players. Ask Fred Jackson. In truth their interest in Phil Taylor has plenty of logic to it given how inconsistent their run defense has been this preseason. Depth on the interior is coming into question, which may compel them to add another body, preferably one with size and experience.

Someone like Taylor.

Next: NFL Team Predictions: The Oakland Raiders

More from NFL Mocks

Home/NFL Draft