Top NFL free agents that won’t break the bank
By Jeff Adcox
Signing a marquee free agent at a much needed position can be a tremendous lift to an NFL team, but the teams that also adds some solid role players just waiting to overachieve are the ones that often find themselves in the postseason.
As teams look to add that one name that can put them over the top, Around the League writer Chis Wesseling pointed out a few names that could come cheap and provide a huge upside to the club that signs them.
First on the list is Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Golden Tate. Wesseling’s take is below.
"Golden Tate, WR, Seattle Seahawks: Instead of pointing out what Tate isn’t (a No. 1 receiver), appreciate him for what he is. Although his counting stats have been artificially deflated in the league’s run-heaviest offense, Tate led all NFL receivers in forced missed tackles and yards after catch per reception, while doubling as the most effective punt returner in the league. He’s a willing blocker, excels on bubble screens and crossing routes, is able to beat cornerbacks deep and has improved every season."
Other players Wesseling lists as the top free agent bargains include:
Randy Starks, DT, Miami Dolphins
Walter Thurmond, CB, Seattle Seahawks
Pat Sims, DT, Oakland Raiders
Geoff Schwartz, OL, Kansas City Chiefs
Maurice Jones-Drew, RB, Jacksonville Jaguars
Andre Roberts, WR, Arizona Cardinals
Garrett Graham, TE, Houston Texans
Wesley Woodyard, LB, Denver Broncos
Toby Gerhart, RB, Minnesota Vikings