2017 NFL Free Agency: Best Players Available At Every Position
By Erik Lambert
EDGE: Connor Barwin
The switch to a 4-3 defense didn’t do Barwin any favors last season. That’s often typical though. At 30-years old there’s no reason to think he still can’t be an effective pass rusher for a team. Provided he finds one will to move him back to outside linebacker. In 2014 and 2015 at that position he posted a combined 21.5 sacks. At a reasonable price he would be a nice addition.
DL: Johnathan Hankins
An injury sidelined him in 2016 but at age 25 there is no reason to think Johnathan Hankins won’t be back 100% this coming season. He’s still a big body with core strength and quickness that makes him a solid run defender up front. On top of that he’s provided the occasional juice to the pass rush. It’s honestly surprising he hasn’t signed somewhere already. He’ll bring any team considerable value.
LB: Dont’a Hightower
Perhaps the most puzzling name still available is Hightower. He was the best linebacker on the market when it opened and that hasn’t changed. Clearly he’s taking this decision quite seriously, going through the interview process with purpose. He’s made stops with the Jets and Steelers. Rumors persist he’ll likely rejoin the Patriots. Either way whichever team wins the prize gets a dependable presence at the heart of their defense.
Next: 2017 Free Agency: The 5 Most/Least Improved Teams So Far
CB: Morris Claiborne
The former 6th overall pick has endured a lot of scrutiny over the years for not living up to his potential, either due to injuries or erratic play. This past season it looked like the light went on. His coverage was excellent and he was making plays. Then, almost by a cruel joke he was lost for the year to another injury. Teams are left to wonder. Will that same guy return or is he reverting back to what he was? If it’s the former, this will be a steal.
S: T.J. McDonald
One of those criminally overlooked players in free agency who is better than his numbers suggest. McDonald is a rock solid safety who can play up in the box or match up with tight ends in coverage due to his size-athleticism combination. The only explanation would be his misdemeanor conviction that resulted from a car accident. Odds are he’ll be suspended two games. Even so, this sort of talent is worth the investment.