2018 NFL Free Agency: 5 Big Gambles Still Available

Most people have already shifted their focus towards the draft but the 2018 NFL free agency period is still ongoing with lots of names out there.

It’s typically at this time that most of the market is filled with talent that has some red flags attached to it. Maybe it’s health problems, maybe it’s general age or perhaps it’s an off-the-field situation that teams are wary of. That makes such players a considerable gamble. Here is a quick list of five names left out there who fit the profile and what their respective situations would bring.

Eric Reid (S)

Everybody knows why Reid isn’t signed yet. Under normal conditions, the 26-years old former Pro Bowler would’ve been scooped up immediately. It’s clear NFL team are wary of him due to his outspoken history on social issues. Not only did he participate in anthem protests with the 49ers, he also criticized efforts by player reps and the league when they reached a deal to address this problem. As a result, he continues to wait. Any team that signs him would get a good player, but also a potential media lightning rod.

Tre Boston (S)

He had five interceptions in 2017, so Tre Boston has to have some value to a team right? Yes, that’s true. Boston is tremendous in coverage and a true ballhawk. The problem is he’s a major liability in the ground game. So many times last season he was caught getting faked out of his cleats trying to make a tackle or just taking bad angles to a ball carrier. So any team signing him would have to take the good with the bad and hope they don’t need him too often against the run.

NaVorro Bowman (ILB)

At age 30 and coming multiple season-ending injuries since 2013, NaVorro Bowman isn’t the electric player he once was. However, this realization has led many to think that he’s suddenly become useless. That’s not the case at all. Bowman was a huge help to the Oakland Raiders when he signed there, shoring up their run defense. He’s not going to make as many big plays as he used to, but if a team needs a steady hand at the line of scrimmage, he can still do that.

Kony Ealy (EDGE)

It’s hard to figure Kony Ealy out. Two years ago it looked like he was on the cusp of becoming a star. Then he’s abruptly traded to New England, cut before the season and spends a year with the Jets. Now he’s unemployed despite being an experienced edge rusher who is still just 26-years old. One has to wonder if there are some personality issues at play here, not to mention some health problems. If not then it is beyond puzzling that Ealy hasn’t found a job yet.

Next: 2018 NFL Mock Draft: The Quarterback Double Down Arrives

Junior Gallette (EDGE)

Here’s a man who’s seen multiple seasons cut down by injury but still manages to find a way to generate effective heat as a pass rusher. Junior Gallette also got himself in trouble off the field, which was why he was released by the New Orleans Saints. He’s stayed out of any issues since but it’s clear that only a team desperate for some pass rush help should consider him, and most likely on a one-year deal. In that situation, he would be helpful.