2017 NFL Free Agency: Best Players Available At Every Position
By Erik Lambert
The 2017 NFL free agency market has entered a quiet period with the primary waves having passed. Even so, plenty of talent still remains available. Part of “winning” this time of year isn’t just getting the popular players in the initial rush on day one.
It’s also about navigating the later days and even weeks, sifting through the names still available to find those hidden gems. They exist out there. It’s just a matter of finding them. To aid in the search, here is a rundown of the top names still available at every position.
QB: Colin Kaepernick
This was tough because Jay Cutler was certainly some competition. In the end Kaepernick wins because he’s younger and a more experienced player in terms of playoff football. It’s amazing to think he’s just 27-years old. He’s the same athlete he’s always been with a rocket right arm. The big question is does he love football? His hunger seems to have dissipated with a growing interest in waging political battles instead. Teams may not want that headache.
RB: Eddie Lacy
Adrian Peterson is 32-years old and wasn’t playing well before getting hurt last year. Eddie Lacy is 27 and was averaging over five yards per carry. Everything about him is centered on conditioning. If a team can keep his weight under control, he’s demonstrated an ability to grind defenses down with gashing runs. That’s why the head coach will matter so much to wherever he ends up signing.
WR: Kamar Aiken
It’s strange that Baltimore didn’t give Aiken more of a chance after his solid 2015 season. He posted over 900 yards receiving with five touchdowns. There is clearly ability in his game. Maybe not #1 level but he has the look of a good #2. They can make plays too. Given the relatively uncertainty of the 2017 draft class, he shouldn’t be without a job for much longer.
TE: Jared Cook
He went to Green Bay with a plan in mind and executed it quite well. Jared Cook joined Aaron Rodgers for a season, improved his profile as a receiving tight end and is right back on the market. Problem is a loaded draft class really may life difficult for him in finding that lucrative deal he’s no doubt searching for. Still, some team is going to get a productive weapon at the position.
OL: Nick Mangold
Don’t be fooled by the fact he’s 33-years old. Nick Mangold is still one of the best centers in the NFL. A tough blocker who can plow open running lanes and keep his quarterback clean. The trick for him is getting his body healthy. Something that was a constant problem last season. Any team that gets him back close to 100% will have center upgraded for the couple years at least.