Top 30 NFL free agents for 2019

PITTSBURGH, PA - DECEMBER 10: Pittsburgh Steelers Running Back Le'Veon Bell (26) runs with the ball during the game between the Baltimore Ravens and the Pittsburgh Steelers on December 10, 2017 at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, Pa. (Photo by Mark Alberti/ Icon Sportswire) /

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17. Kareem Jackson

Jackson was moved to safety last offseason, but shifted back to corner primarily when Kevin Johnson went down with a concussion in Week 1. He set a career-high with 87 total tackles (70 solo), with two interceptions, two forced fumbles and 17 pass breakups on his way to becoming a Pro Bowl alternate. Pro Football Focus credited the pass breakups a little differently, but Jackson graded out in the top tier of cornerbacks in 2018. Deep into the season, PFF had him as their No. 1-graded cornerback.

Kareem Jackson was the league's fifth-highest graded cornerback this season – combining to secure 12 INTs+PBUs pic.twitter.com/eYzML3p8gl
— PFF (@PFF) January 9, 2019

The Houston Texans have ample cap space to bring Jackson and safety Tyrann Mathieu back in free agency, but to this point they’ve only expressed sentiment about re-signing Mathieu. For his part Jackson has said he’d like to be back, but that’s to be expected after nine seasons with the team. With someone else on this list set to get a big contract, and the idea they need to aggressively add some offensive line reinforcements to protect Deshaun Watson, the Texans may quickly find themselves having to let Jackson go.

Jackson had a well-timed great season, and even approaching 31 years old (April 10) he brings versatility to the table that would be a welcome addition to any secondary.

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