Fansided

Ranking the top 25 NFL free agents this offseason

By Ian Wharton

Mandatory Credit: Wesley Hitt/Getty Images
Mandatory Credit: Wesley Hitt/Getty Images /
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5. Earl Thomas, S, Seattle Seahawks

GLENDALE, AZ – OCTOBER 23: Free safety Earl Thomas #29 of the Seattle Seahawks reacts during the NFL game against the Arizona Cardinals at the University of Phoenix Stadium on October 23, 2016 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
GLENDALE, AZ – OCTOBER 23: Free safety Earl Thomas #29 of the Seattle Seahawks reacts during the NFL game against the Arizona Cardinals at the University of Phoenix Stadium on October 23, 2016 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

The last few years have shown inconsistency as far as how safeties are valued during free agency, but make no mistake that Earl Thomas will have a robust market. Constantly linked to the Dallas Cowboys this past season, expect heavy competition for Thomas’ services, even as he hits 30 years old in May.

A rare single-high producer, Thomas influences offenses single-handedly with his range, instincts and intellect. He’ll have his pick from the field to go where he pleases, but he may have to sacrifice money as most contenders try to save their cap and cash and make the most of their resources as they can.

Notably, Thomas is good enough to influence which team wins the 2020 Super Bowl.

Projected deal: Four years, $48 million

Best fits: Dallas Cowboys, Pittsburgh Steelers, Kansas City Chiefs, Los Angeles Chargers,  New York Giants, Green Bay Packers, San Francisco 49ers

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