Lawrence Timmons: 5 best fits in NFL free agency

Lawrence Timmons was one of the highest-paid linebackers in the NFL last season, can he see a similar deal on the open market?

At age 30, Lawrence Timmons was on the books for about $15 million last season, making him the highest paid inside linebacker. However, that is not necessarily accurate, as he consistently restructured his contract to create cap space, pushing back a load of money until his last season.

Given his age, his decline of play and coverage, and the fact that he likely wasn’t worth that much to begin with, it is safe to say he will not see anywhere near that price tag this offseason. Still, he is a productive player. He recorded 104 tackles and was a physical presence against the run. It will attract the attention of some teams, so the question is who will be in the market for the veteran free agent?

5. Oakland Raiders

The Raiders need some linebacker help in the worst way. Malcolm Smith is a free agent, and Ben Heeney is a depth rotational piece at best. They have a young defense, and their playoff inexperience showed when losing in ugly fashion to the Houston Texans in the Wild Card Round.

Timmons has two Super Bowl appearances, and a Super Bowl ring to speak to his playing experience. He is a veteran and would be a strong locker room leader for a team in need of one. He is a punisher against the run and would give the defense the depth and talent they need to take a step forward.

Timmons has some drawbacks in coverage, though. However, with Karl Joseph being able to play in the box and guard tight ends and running backs, he is not going to be relied on in coverage as much as he would in Pittsburgh. The Raiders should have a decent amount of cap space, and with some needs on the offensive side of the ball, Timmons would be a great fit and a cost effective addition on their defense.