Ranking the top 25 NFL free agents this offseason
By Ian Wharton
8. Sheldon Richardson, DT, Minnesota Vikings
Interior pass-rushers rarely hit the market in their prime, but Sheldon Richardson is slated to do so for the third straight offseason as he hits free agency for the second time. There’s baggage with his motor, but he’s incredibly disruptive beyond his sack production and is still only 28 years old.
Richardson has played well without effort issues in each of the last two seasons, so expect a longer-term deal than his one-year stint with Minnesota. He can play as a 3-4 end or 4-3 tackle, making him a valuable addition without having to pay the absolute premium for his services.
Projected deal: Three years, $39 million
Best fits: Minnesota Vikings, Miami Dolphins, Cleveland Browns, Indianapolis Colts, New York Giants, Detroit Lions