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Ok, 4 days left....what are the positions of need, in what order of priority and which players (starter, stop gap, backups) would you target (since we don´t know who we are gonna draft, imagine you´d have to fill your roster with FAs...go through all options)...use this list, it´s pretty accurate and even has implemented some cuts

http://www.draftdaddy.com/features/nflfreeagents_defense.htm


Positions of need:

1. OLB: starter AND pass rushing depth
2. S: starter AND depth
3. MLB: starter
4. DE: starter AND depth
5. WR: starter AND depth
6. CB: starter or at least strong Nickel
7. C/G: starter
8. RB: starter? co-Jamal?


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1. OLB

There really is no 3-4 starting OLB out there....I guess that´s a "must" for Koke+Mangini. If we completely miss out on a prospect or have to sign a stopgap (which we should anyway since you can´t pencil in a conversion prospect from day 1) I´d think about:

stop gaps:
A.Crowell
Boley
both aren´t good fits and not known as pass rushers

backups:

Burnett...knows 34, may have some upside left
M.Harris...same


2. S

At least we´re flexible her since Pool can probably play both spots and even looked better at SS when Jones was out.
Most FAs are SS though:


1. FS M.Brown...not very durable but a good stop gap solution...strong backup needed though

2.J. Phillips....solid SS

3. J.Butler....younger but worse than both above

4. Leonhard....bit overrated around here, probably too good for backup and too bad as a starter...Adams-like

backups: a lot of options here:

Adams, Considine, Leonhard, J.Bullocks, D.Smith

3. MLB

Bell and Williams provide solid depth and since outside of Maulauga there isn´t much in the draft to immediatly step in the spot next to DQwell will be filled in FA

1. M.Peterson...was injured last year, more like a stop gap at this point but I´d sign him and see what Bell can do

2. B.Scott...not a big fan since I think we would have to overpay and he profited playing next to and behind great players....but he´s better than the rest

3. Crowder....don´t want him either but beggars can´t be choosers. A younger A.Davis: solid against the run, can´t pass rush and avg at best in coverage...remember: MIA runs the 34 and has absolutely no other MLB....and they let him go...what does that tell you?

4. Barton....don´t want him pt.3: He´s an older A.Davis who isn´t named A.Davis and knows the HC, that´s it....Jets also run 34 and let him go

Of course there´s the Lewis option but I don´t think he´d come here and I don´t want him for the price he´d demand...as you see, again...not much out there to really UPGRADE the position...just like OLB...but the stop gap options look more solid. I´d really think hard about Peterson, he´s my wildcard and could complement DQwell pretty good and make him and Bell/Williams better...vet-leader...maybe Boley could play ILB in a 34?

4. DE

I think this is a position many on here forget....we really have a problem here. R.Smith is old and coming off a serious injury and he could get cut if he doesn´t agree to take a paycut? You really can´t count on him as a starter imho...C.Williams was injured but maybe he won´t get better...we have no real depth here which is needed to keep all of them fresh. Leonard did an ok job considering the fact that he´s more built like a NT but shouldn´t be more than a #4
There are some nice players out there for a change

1. Canty...can´t believe DAL is letting him walk...but I´ll believe it when I see it, I think they´ll make a late push for him

2. Olshansky...another young and experienced 34 DE...my guess is: both haven´t resigned cause they demand a big payday knowing that the demand will be huge since 3 new 34 teams are out there now

3. D.Evans....similar to R.Smith, stop gap and solid rotational player

backups/rotational: M.Montgomery....another young GB backup/rotational guy...probably too expensive for a backup sign, maybe JAX´s Spicer (who is rumored of being cut...he´d fall in the Evans category)

5. WR

Edwrads is probably gone next season and I don´t think Mangini and him will fall in love with each other to make him re-sign, Stallworth should be cut since he can´t stay healthy, is inconsitent and is owed 6mil (still can´t believe we haven´t cut him already)...the reason may be the FA class

1. Housh....longshot and risky since he´s getting old and demand a hefty long term contract

2. N.Washington...not a big fan but he´s the next best and is in a great situation to get overpayed

3. S.McDonald...I like him, probably not starting material but a slot-WR upgrade to Steptoe

4. R.Williams...good RZ target, not much more though

5. B.Johnson....a cheaper Stallworth, don´t want him though

6. D.Henderson...too 1-dimensional to be a starter outside of NewOrleans imho, more a 4th WR deep threat who could fill in

stop gaps: Toomer, Furrey, Curry, Patten

6. CB

I like our starting CBs and think they aren´t the problem, we still need another good CB to upgrade our NB situation which was as bad as advertised manned by Cousin

1. C.McAlister...if healthy still a decent player

2. R.Bartell...young, fast and big...haven´t seen much of him and am not sure he would be a good sign since STL has CB of their own, probably won´t be worth the money

3. Goodman...had a great season, 30years though and will demand big bucks, too small too

4. Bodden...for the right price I´d welcome him back, he has the size for the RZ

5. McFadden...will be too expensive I guess, won´t be worth it

stop gaps/NB: Greer, Green, Ratliff, Foxworth, Holly, Florence, S.Wilson

7. C/G

Fraley-Hadnot didn´t work...lots of good C out there

1. J.Brown....would be too good to be true

2. M.Birk...old but good

3. Saturday...see above

8.RB

Ward or nobody...3-3.5mil/year would be ok with me...if we miss out on him and don´t draft a RB high I´d think about LaMont Jordan and M.Morris as backup

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Not much out there after looking closely, most of the better players are already re-signed by their team...I know that there will be a lot of hype with every new Brown but I don´t see much upgrade potential through FA this year

DISCUSS and post your wishlist

I'd put RB at like 3 or 4 as a position of need if not higher

A guy I like at WR is Roland Curry who was just cut by the Raiders. I know, cut by the Raiders, he must suck, but I remember watching him a few years back and thinking that this kid would make an excellent #2 or #3. Why the Raiders sent him packing I don't know, but then if I knew why the Raiders did ANYTHING I'd be afraid for my mental health...

Quote:

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A guy I like at WR is Roland Curry who was just cut by the Raiders. I know, cut by the Raiders, he must suck, but I remember watching him a few years back and thinking that this kid would make an excellent #2 or #3. Why the Raiders sent him packing I don't know, but then if I knew why the Raiders did ANYTHING I'd be afraid for my mental health...

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Curry is definetely worth a look, especially if JJ is not back. He should be cost effective as well.

I would rate it like this:

1. OLB Need a starter and a backup
2. ILB Need a starter
3. S (if Jones isn't re-signed) Need a starter and backup
4. RG Need a starter
5. CB Need a starter and depth (If Holly is healthy or re-signed)
6. RB Need a replacement for Lewis and a backup if Wright isn't re-signed.
7. WR Need depth here although a stud to team with Braylon would be nice too.
8. DL Need Depth
9. OL Need Depth

Free Agents i would look at:

DE Jason Babin (I'd give him a try at OLB)
DE's Mike Wright and C.J. Mosley
ILB's Eric Barton and Channing Crowder
S's Jermaine Phillips, Gibril Wilson, and James Butler
CB Bryant McFadden
RB Maurice Morris
WR's Mike Furrey, Michael Clayton, and Bryant Johnson
OL Elton Brown

My 1 Wish.. and 1 Wish only...

TJ Housh....

my wish: Bart Scott. I know he would cost a bunch- but he would fix that middle lb for several years. He has played well even when Lewis has been out- i don't think he would bust without the strong supporting cast around him.
Where he'll go- i would think the jets are serious contenders to sign him. Rex knows him and he knows Rex.

scott would be a solid pickup...

I wonder how U guys analize things..
Our first priority is to find a replacement for Andra...
ILB..

I would prefer Crowder..Mangini knows Barton..Crowder is younger more athletic..remember none of these guys are perfect..
Scott played on the weakside..I don't know how he would handle moving to the strongside..I can't project that..

Next:
See if we can get Bryant McFadden from Pukesburgh..or Bartell from the Rams..we need a experienced big corner...
Let Jones test FA..if he goes , then get Wilson from the Raiders..
On offense..trade DA..get some picks..sign Harrington as a backup QB..
Go get Derrick Ward RB from the Giants..

Let Danity Stallworthless walka and go get a WR..and there are a bunch of them in FA..

We have 2 young mid round picks behind a solid starter at ILB and a handful of FA options who are just as bad as Andra to replace him. OTOH we have a 1 starter at OLB, who in contrast to Dqwell is on the verge of busting and a 7th round project, NO DEPTH....and ZERO FAs....and you think ILB is Manginis #1 concern? Yeah right...


What solid starter..DQ?
He manns the weakside dude..most of the FA's have better instincts than Davis ever had..I do not want that putrid LB starting here again.
I've been fed up with him for years and now someone wants to lay a claim that he's not the biggest weakness on defense????

U sign the best FA LB U can , and look in the draft for depth..Williams is a younger Davis..depth..thats it.

The best way to fix the run is upgrade the middle..how many times must I say that?????
There's no way U can argue about the middle..no way..as far as how much CC would want I don't know..like I said Mang knows Barton...so he could choose him..

He is their Sean Jones...so he would be a good sign ?
If Sean Jones was a LB he'd still have better instincts than Davis..
So yeah I'd sign him..to a team friendly contract..

But don't give me some weak debate that OLB is more of a need than ILB..it isn't..it's next on the list but it as heck isn't first.
I can look in the draft and get me a OLB/Tweener..

I´m always amazed at how fans are ok with overpaying other teams trash rather than their own...

U seem to like our trash..I hate it..I would never have signed Stallworthless..
U gonna tell me that Whosyermama is not better than him???
I'd take Brandon Jones over that crap Stallworthless..
The draft will yield a better WR than that crap of catchless players we have in stock..
Who said we're going to overpay??

U've done little to dispell anything I've said..

I was really hoping we'd get Vernon Carey, but he never made it to the market. Miami signed him for 6 years.

Come back to me when you upgraded your comprehension skills... Yeah, I like Stallworth over Housh, lol that´s why I listed him at #1...jesus

How many 3rd and 5+yds did we have? and din´t get off the field? Our run stopping was ok for as long as the game was close...it broke down cause we couldn´t get off the field on 3rd and long...remember how we were better at 3rd & short situations?

We have no pass rush...this makes both our coverage AND run stopping look worse than it was...why? We could not get off the field when we needed to cause the QB had all day

Also, I have OLB listed as top need because we have fewer in house options and less stability....

Davis is trash but the FAs outside of Scott aren´t much of an upgrade...you think 2 34 MLB-needy teams who let go their trash (= Crowder, Barton) are better than Davis? I don´t think so...

When U upgrade your analization skills call me..
We don't stop the run on first down..or second or third..

I never said we didn't have a pass rush but in case U have amnesia the Browns have never stopped the run since they returned in 99..

U fix the the middle first..and that was partly done by getting Shaun Rodgers..next U get a ILB .. I never ever said CC or any of those guys were top notch..I said get one to move into Davis's vacant spot..it's vacant even when he plays..
.
Next you address OLB..
See U want to do the reverse..go into the draft with a huge hole inside but plug in a OLB..

I can go into the draft with a Crowder/Barton or another player and look for a OLB somewhere either first or second round..I won't be hancuffed into finding a starter if someone like Curry is drafted before we pick..
Curry would have to be the target if the Browns don't get a FA ILB..

U act like we have a compliment of draft picks..as of today we have 4..4..4..just 4...we can't be handcuffed with major holes with as few picks as we have.
I'll remind U , after round two we don't select again till round 4 ..want to have to wait till then to get a MLB???
U'll be getting another Andra for sure.
I want the major holes fixed in FA..and it starts with ILB first.
I'll take being a bit weaker on the outside if it means I get the interior fixed..

I have a rather simple wish list:

OLB
ILB
WR
Safety
CB
DE
RT or RG (Prefer both)

As far as I'm concerned they can come from the Draft or FA.. makes no nevermind to me.

Here's mine:

ILB Possible fits: FA- Bart Scott, Channing Crowder Draft- Aaron Curry (best off addressing this in FA)

OLB Possible fits: FA- Jack squat Draft- Everette Brown, Aaron Maybin, Clint Sintim, Clay Matthews III, Larry English
(best off addressing in draft)
C/G Possible Fits: FA- Jason Brown, Stacy Andrews, Jake Grove Draft- Alex Mack, Max Unger, Duke Robinson, Jonathan Luigs, Eric Wood
(either or)

I got to go now. I'll do more later.

I'm with Attack on this one .. ILB is the number one priority on " D " I have OLB and Safety in a two way tie at # 2 .. Jones gets over paid by someone >>>

One the " O " side of the ball, I am looking to up grade the RG & Center spot this season if possible ... Yea we need a WR & RB , I know ! You can only do so much unless we make a couple of trades for picks ...

If it was me, I would go....

ILB = Crowder.....he is young and I think coachable....
DB = McFadden or Bodden......Preferably McFadden
Safety = I think Gibril Wilson would be a good addition.....
DE / OLB = hmmmmm.......I guess Canty........not a whole lot to pick form
WR = Furry and Curry - Furry played good in Detroit as a slot WR....Curry will benefit from a change of scenery I think.....

and if we have to do it all in FA, then I keep DA as my back up.....otherwise, try for Leftwich....

I guess the "O" line is just screwed...after Gross and Carey signed....is their anyone left worth messing with...???? I just keep who I got.....

I really should have quit responding to you since you obviously didn´t read or comprehend my 1st post.
Naww..U should quit before U prioritized the needs
Cuze there's no way OLB/S is a greater need than ILB..and thats why I'm jabbing U..


I just happen to think that pretty much everyone outside of Lewis, Scott and Peterson aren´t upgrades to Davis...and NO I don´t want Davis re-signed

Thats where I question U..U think that..and sorry ...it's not hard to upgrade Davis without signing Lewis/Scott or Peterson.
U can put everything in all caps all ya want..(I just won't read it) but the IMMEDIATE biggest need is ILB.

I listed OLB before ILB because even though he's an unknown commodity yet i think Beau Bell might be able to solve our problem there.

I know, I hope that Mangenius doesn't get too quick to judge our talent here. Some of our draftees have skills, namely Bell and Rucker. I'd like them to at least be able to show their stuff in camp.

A new coach, new season, new organization, it can really do wonders. There's definitely more talent on our team than when butch davis left us.

There might be some surprises in camp this year, as to who looks good and who doesn't

Mangini strikes me as the kinda guy that won't play favorites.... I'm fairly convinced that if Rucker and Bell show the goods, they'll get the playing time.

But as of this moment,, he's gotta make decisions as if they aren't going to be good enough. It will be too late to address it by the time he finds out one way or the other.

I would rank the needs like this ...

1a. ILB
1b. OLB ...

we need LBers guys .... and we need one for the inside and we need one to rush the passer ... these are both MUST HAVES ....

the little tiff U and attack are having is kinda silly if u ask me .. cause were HURTING at both spots ... if push came to shove and i had to choose one .... I'd prolly take ILB as the OLB is needed for pass rushing ability ... and if u can't stop the run ... we won't need a pass rusher cause no one wil ever to pass against us ...

but to be quite honest I do think that LB is a bigger need due to the fact that as bad as our ILbers are .... our pass rushing OLBers are even worse .. there PUTRID .

and its the last two paragraphs that show why to me there needs 1a and 1b ....

my wish list consists of one guy and one guy only ... TJ ... he runs GREAT ROUTES .... has GREAT HANDS ... plus hes pretty big .... BQ will utilize the hell out of this guy ... I REALLY WANT HIM .... if there was an OLB or an ILB in his class (other than Lewis) ... I'd want those positions .. or safety or a middle OLman ... but when taking into account .. talent, money and need ... TJ is da man ....

I agree hes getting old and will command big bucks .. but for what he will bring here he's WORTH IT ... BQ will utilize the hell out of him ...

j/c...

Top 30 free agent rankings. Too long to post. link

Well actually this is pretty obvious.

We have 3 starters gone who need to be replaced In house, Draft (4 picks only 2 with impact value) or FAgency.

Safety: Sean Jones FA...we still might sign him after he realizes he's not going to get what he's asking. We also lost our depth n Special Teams player Adams.

ILB: Andre Davis FA...we won't sign him. Bell is a in-house possibility only cause we don't have the data to eliminate him. Leon is not the answer.

SOLB: Willie McG FA...who knows if we'll bring him back for one more??? We got rid of Peek the other in house option. All we have is a RAW Hall.

We can all assume that we won't want to go into the draft with such an "URGENT NEED" especially when we only have 4 picks! So a Starter even 2nd tier can be expected from FAgency.

Depth positions:
as mentioned Safety we need depth and the starter...so even if we Re-sign Jones we might sign another as well.

CB: All we got of note is our 2 starters and Daniels as a possible Nickel who should be an improvement on Cousins (what wouldn't be?)
But we need more depth than that...so it wouldn't shock me if we bring in a couple of 2nd tier CBs to fight it out for a position as our #3 n #4 but between 2nd tier FA, UDFAs and possibly the draft we should have 4-5 CBs in camp fighting for 2 spots!

RB: We lose Jason Wright so there is a slot open for another RB. It could be top tier like Ward or 2nd tier. Also draft n UDFA's will be a possibility.

OL...would be nice but not necessary. Between McKinney, Hadnot and Tucker we have the depth. I think if anything is done it will be done in the DRAFT.

JMHO

anything offense. Since were gonna have a bad record again this year, might as well score a lot of points doing it.

Try to sign Channing Crowder, Jason Brown, Chris Canty.

Draft Aaron Curry in 1st round, Either Mccoy/Moreno/Wells in the 2nd round.

This guy

Pete Priscos top 50 free agents:

web page

After the franchise tags were issued, coupled with all the re-signings of key veterans by their own teams, the NFL free-agency pool now looks like a picked-over bargain bin at your local discount store.

There are still some values in there, but you'll have to work to get them, making some wonder if it's worth it this year. Then again, is it ever?

Free agency is a dangerous proposition for any team. There is great risk -- and great expense.

My advice to any general manager would be simple: Tread carefully.

Pay close attention to age.

That's what I did, as I always do, in compiling my list of the top 50 free agents left on the open market. Any player over 30 could not be included in my top-10. That's why there is no Ray Lewis there. That's why there is no Kurt Warner there.

Also not on the list are players with franchise tags -- there are 11 of them -- and restricted free agents.

Those players rarely, if ever, move.

The Tennessee Titans couldn't put the tag on defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth, which is why he's on the open market. It's also why he's the top player on the list.

Haynesworth is as dominant a defensive player as there is in the league. He makes players around him that much better. He's a brute force against the run and he's quick rushing the passer.

There are questions about him. Some wonder if he will be the same player once he gets the money.

That's a chance worth taking for the team that does land him.

The rest of the top 10 is filled with players who fit the target age of 26. Some are a little older, some younger but they're all in their prime.

Spend money on those players. That's how you get value.

Giving large contracts to players over 30 usually comes back to hurt a team. Give those players shorter deals.

Youth is where the dough should go.

1. Albert Haynesworth, DT, Tennessee Titans: He's easily the best player on this list. He's a power player who dominates when he wants to do so.

2 Jason Brown, C, Baltimore Ravens: He's a power player in the middle who is just now entering his prime. He's better blocking for the run than as a pass protector. Will cash in big in this period.

3. Chris Canty, DE, Dallas Cowboys: He's a big defensive end who can play the run. He's not a great pass rusher but might entice some 3-4 teams.

4. Antonio Smith, DE, Arizona Cardinals: He had a great playoff run, showing off pass-rush skills. That is why he will get overpaid in this market. Intriguing, but not as good as the money he will make.

5. Bryant McFadden, CB, Pittsburgh Steelers: He's a solid starter and teams are always looking for corners. Plus, his best football will come in the next three years.

6. Stacey Andrews, T, Cincinnati Bengals: He tore up his knee late last season, but he's made good progress. He should be ready for the open of the 2009 season. Knee injuries don't cripple linemen. He's an ascending player.

7. Jonathan Vilma, LB, New Orleans Saints: In his first season with the Saints, he showed why he is a good 4-3 linebacker and why the Jets miscast him as a 3-4 inside backer. The Saints want him back, but he will be tough to keep.

8. DeAngelo Hall, CB, Washington Redskins: He's not nearly as good as he thinks, but he played well for the Redskins after the Raiders let him go last season. But how does he play after he gets paid? He had to play well in Washington to get another big contract.

9. Bart Scott, LB, Baltimore Ravens: The Ravens will try to keep him, but they have other issues. He's a good player, but he's seeking great player money.

10. Channing Crowder, LB, Miami Dolphins: He's an aggressive, young linebacker who fits the target demographic at 26. The price is too high for the Dolphins to retain him. (Re-signed with Miami, Feb. 25)

11. Igor Olshansky, DT, San Diego Chargers: He's a solid 3-4 end who can hold up against the run. Can he play inside in a 4-3 defense is the big question.

12. Philip Buchanon, CB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: He started last year for the Bucs, and at 28 he still has some good football left. He's another player who is a perfect second corner.

13. Ray Lewis, LB, Baltimore Ravens: Age moves him down, but for a team looking for a two-year hit he can help. That team better have big people to keep guards off him.

14. Kurt Warner, QB, Arizona Cardinals: He'll play in Arizona, which is why he's down this list. Like Lewis, he's a two-year player.

15. T. J. Houshmandzadeh, WR, Cincinnati Bengals: He'll be looking for No. 1 receiver money and I don't think he's that guy. Somebody will.

16. Gibril Wilson, S, Oakland Raiders: After being a marquee signing by the Raiders last season, Wilson was let go in a cost-cutting move. He played OK in his first season in Oakland, but was cut because of cap considerations.

17. Fred Taylor, RB, Jacksonville Jaguars: Here's another two-year player. Don't let last season fool you, he can still run. The Patriots are a perfect fit.

18. Yeremiah Bell, S, Miami Dolphins: He's had some injury issues, but he played well in 2008. He's a tough tackler who always seems to be around the ball.

19. Jabari Greer, CB, Buffalo Bills: He has started 23 games the past two seasons and should be getting a lot of attention when the period opens. He's a good No. 2 corner.

20. Jovan Haye, DT, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: He's not a big defensive tackle at 285 pounds, so he has to play in the right system. The Bucs were perfect for him; he started the past two seasons. He has to play in a similar system.

21. Gerald Sensabaugh, S, Jacksonville Jaguars: Were it not for his off-the-field issues, he'd be higher on this list. He was the Jaguars' best defender in the final five games of last season.

22. Andra Davis, LB, Cleveland Browns: At 30, he's not the player he was a few years ago. But he had 90 tackles last season and can still be a productive NFL linebacker.

23. Mike Peterson, LB, Jacksonville Jaguars: He had a falling out with Jack Del Rio, leading to his benching, but he still led the team in tackles. He has two good years left.

24. Jermaine Phillips, S, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: He turns 30 in March and the Bucs like backup Sabby Piscatelli, which is why he's probably gone. He played well in 2007, tailed off some last season, but he can help a team in need of a starting strong safety.

25. Byron Leftwich, QB, Pittsburgh Steelers: After spending 2008 as a backup in Pittsburgh, it's time for him to start again. He's more than capable.

26. Marcus Washington, LB, Washington Redskins: The Redskins released him for money reasons. He played only 22 games the past two seasons because of hamstring issues.

27. Sean Jones, S, Cleveland Browns: He's a solid strong safety who isn't great in coverage. But he does play well in run support.

28. Rocky Bernard. DT, Seattle Seahawks: Bernard is 308 pounds and plays with quickness. He started 15 games last season, but he turns 30 in April. Even so, he's got some talent.

29. Michael Boley, LB, Atlanta Falcons: He had a good season two years ago, but fell off last year. Some off-field issues led to that. He can still play.

30. James Sanders, S, New England Patriots: He's a young safety who can run and hit. He had 64 tackles and one interception last season. At 25, he's worth a look.

31. Chris McAlister, CB, Baltimore Ravens: He's getting up in years and has injury issues last season, but he can still help a team for a year or two. When he's healthy, he can still cover well.

32. Jon Stinchcomb, T, New Orleans Saints: He has started at right tackle the past three seasons, and has played well at times. He isn't a mauler, but gets by with smarts and athletic ability.

33. Ronald Bartell, CB, St. Louis Rams: He's a young player who emerged last year in his first as a starter. He's the kind of rising player teams need to sign.

34. Chauncey Davis, DE, Atlanta Falcons: He is a situational pass rusher who thinks he's ready to start. He had four sacks last season. At 26, he is at the target age. The question is whether he's big enough at 270 pounds to be an every-down end.

35. Chris Carr, KR-CB, Tennessee Titans: He can be used as a nickel corner and a return man. He showed well for the Titans last year after coming over from the Raiders.

36. Marvel Smith, T, Pittsburgh Steelers: Injuries are the big thing with him. If not, he'd be higher on this list. He can be a quality left tackle when he's on the field, Medical is huge for him.

37. Nate Washington, WR, Pittsburgh Steelers: He's got good speed and has played well as a third receiver with the Steelers. Is he anything more than that? Probably not.

38. Drayton Florence, CB, Jacksonville Jaguars: He's a nickel back. Period. The Jaguars thought he was more, but then released him when they found out he wasn't.

39. Brandon Jones, WR, Tennessee Titans: He had his best season in 2008, which is a sign he is getting better. He isn't a No. 1 guy, but he could help as a second or third receiver.

40. Khalif Barnes, T, Jacksonville Jaguars: He has the ability to be a quality starter, but some off-the-field issues have stunted his development. If he's more focused, he can be a quality left tackle.

41. Jeff Saturday, C, Indianapolis Colts: At 33, how much does he have left? He was perfect for the Colts, but he doesn't have the strength to play in a lot of systems. He'll get some interest, but not as much as you think.

42. L.J.. Smith, TE, Philadelphia Eagles: The Eagles franchised him last year and then he didn't play well. This time, he hits the market. For a team looking for a pass-catching tight end, he's intriguing.

43. Derrick Ward, RB, New York Giants: He wants a chance to start, but he might just be a backup. If he's looking for starter money, he might not get it.

44. Dominique Foxworth, CB, Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons picked him up last year and he played well for them. Might be a good nickel corner rather than a starter.

45. Laveranues Coles, WR, New York Jets: He is getting up in the years, but he can still help a team with his speed. The Jets tired of his complaining.

46. Marvin Harrison, WR, Indianapolis Colts: He might still be able to help a team as a third receiver, but that's it. His best days are way behind him.

47. Tra Thomas, T, Philadelphia Eagles: His career is winding down and he didn't play up to his usual level last season, but he can still be a capable starter. The team that signs him can't go crazy, though, because he's coming to the end.

48. Bert Berry, DE, Arizona Cardinals: How much does he have left? He's entering his 11h season, which is a concern. He might be able to help in a situational role.

49. Leigh Bodden, CB, Detroit Lions: The Lions let him go for cap reasons, but he has starting-corner skills. With six years experience, he will get action.

50. Jim Leonhard, S, Baltimore Ravens: It's funny how one good season in the right system can help a career. Leonhard was a second-level free agent until this past season when he played for an injured Dawan Landry. Now he will get some action.




Ignoring our own on the list (assuming we do not resign them) I would target the following from this list (there are others I like but they are not on this list).

9. Bart Scott, LB, Baltimore Ravens - Not bloody likely due to $$$.
16. Gibril Wilson, S, Oakland Raiders - Might be too expensive, but worth a talk to see what kind of $$$ he wants.
19. Jabari Greer, CB, Buffalo Bills - Possibly a bidding war with several other teams.
33. Ronald Bartell, CB, St. Louis Rams - Another who is emerging and could be a very solid #2 or nickle, but may be too $$$ for a nickle.
39. Brandon Jones, WR, Tennessee Titans - I think he could be a sleeper; not likely a starter yet, but could do it, and would be a good slot. More durable than Stallworth.

I've been thinking about this since your original post and my belief is that we make some moves but don't make a big splash in FA (meaning no big spending for big names like Savage did).

In that spirit, here's guys that I'd consider - they are in some cases up and comers, in others castaways from other teams. In no particular order:

Sean Jones, FS (Cleveland) - I can't believe that ManKok might let him go with nothing behind him. This would be my first priority.

Pierre Woods, OLB (New England) - he could replace Peek/Orr as a young backup with potential to be more. Rumor was that New England was going to give him a 2nd round tender, but I found nothing stating that it happened.

Ronald Bartell, CB (St Louis) - up and coming CB. Played well in his first year as a starter. Won't break the bank like some of the other FA CBs.

Kwame Harris, OL . The castaway... At minimum could be an inexpensive backup, but I'd look at him at RT and RG (if he could make the transition).

JP Losman or Patrick Ramsey, QB 3rd QB with starting experience. Neither have been overly successful in the NFL but are upgrades over Dorsey.

My draft based on this.

1) Everette Brown, OLB (Florida St.)
2) Shonn Greene, RB (Iowa)
4) AQ Shipley, OC (Penn State)
6) Otis Wiley, S (Michigam State)

Wow, looks like I'm a Big Ten homer, but that is a coincidence, not planned

Shonne Greene is a 3rd round pick at best...

Crowder signs multiyear deal with Dolphins
2/25/2009, 9:41 p.m. EST
By STEVEN WINE
The Associated Press

MIAMI (AP) — Linebacker Channing Crowder signed a multiyear contract Wednesday to remain with the Miami Dolphins, a surprising move after negotiations appeared at a stalemate only a few days ago.

"Things change. There was compromise by both sides," said Crowder's agent, Joel Segal. "Channing wanted to be back with the Dolphins."

A former Florida Gators star, Crowder has been a starter with Miami since his rookie season in 2005. He moved from outside linebacker to the middle last year when Zach Thomas departed and had a career-high 114 tackles.

But it was unclear the Bill Parcells regime wanted to keep Crowder. Discussing the Dolphins last Friday, Crowder said: "They had the first crack at it and they dropped the ball. ... It's their loss."

Miami has three players still set to become unrestricted free agents, all in the secondary. They are cornerback Andre Goodman and safeties Yeremiah Bell and Renaldo Hill.

The Dolphins are especially eager to retain Bell, who led them in tackles. Free agency begins Friday.

Miami averted the loss of tackle Vernon Carey to free agency when he signed a $42 million, six-year contract last week.

Crowder, a former third-round draft choice, has been criticized for his failure to make many big plays. His career totals include no interceptions, 1 1/2 sacks and three fumbles recovered.

But he was the second-leading tackler last season on a much-improved defense for the Dolphins, who won the AFC East after going 1-15 in 2007.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Lots of guys like this will re-sign with their current team, as they do every year......

With ties to the new Browns regime, these could be top free-agent targets
by Tony Grossi/Plain Dealer Reporter
Wednesday February 25, 2009, 9:59 PM


CLEVELAND -- The key players in projecting free agents that might interest the Browns are General Manager George Kokinis (formerly of Baltimore), coach Eric Mangini (Jets), and coordinators Brian Daboll (Jets), Rob Ryan (Raiders) and Brad Seely (Patriots). Players on the list below have ties to the new Browns' decision-makers and could be on the radar when free agency begins on Friday.

NEW YORK JETS

ILB Eric Barton: Started 46 games in three seasons under Mangini. He'll be 32 and in his 11th NFL season in September. Might be viewed as a stopgap starter.

CB Hank Poteat: This well-traveled backup is a particular Mangini favorite, capable of filling in at corner and safety.

ILB Cody Spencer: A backup who became very active on special teams in 2008. He'll be 28 in June.
Gail Burton/Associated PressNearly a Brown three seasons ago, Baltimore linebacker Bart Scott continues to play at a high level.


BALTIMORE RAVENS

C Jason Brown: He's the kind of powerful center the new regime wants, but he'll be highly sought after and could break the bank as the highest-paid at his position.

FS Jim Leonhard: An undersized dynamo who was one of Kokinis' prized discoveries, he'll also be pursued by former Baltimore defensive coordinator Rex Ryan, now the Jets' coach.

ILB Bart Scott: Another Jets target, he could stay in Baltimore if Ray Lewis moves on.


OAKLAND RAIDERS

FS Rashad Baker: A potential fallback if Leonhard signs elsewhere, he's a career backup with four teams, including the Patriots.

C Jake Grove: Former second-round pick had 44 starts in five years in Oakland.


NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

FS James Sanders: Drafted in the fourth round when Mangini was defensive coordinator, he's led New England DBs in tackles while starting the past two years.

CB Deltha O'Neal: Started 10 games for Pats at age 31, but should not be viewed as a starter anymore.


NEW YORK GIANTS

RB Derrick Ward: Could share carries with Jamal Lewis in a back-by-committee approach. Mangini said he is on Browns radar.

Browns preparing free agent shopping list

By Steve Doerschuk
CantonRep.com staff writer

BEREA —





FREE-AGENT SHOPPING LIST
Pro Football Weekly rankings of key unrestricted free agents at positions of interest to the Browns (does not include those designated as franchise players; AFC North players bold-faced):

DEFENSE
Safeties
1, Brian Dawkins (Eagles); 2, Yeremiah Bell (Dolphins); 3, Sean Jones (Browns); 4, Gibril Wilson (Raiders); 5, Jermaine Phillips (Buccaneers); 6, Jim Leonhard (Ravens); 7, James Butler (Giants); 8. Atari Bigby (Packers); 9, Gerald Sensabaugh (Jaguars); 10, Mike Brown (Bears); 11, Chris Crocker (Bengals); 12, Lawyer Milloy (Falcons); 13, Vincent Fuller (Titans); 14, Rodney Harrison (Patriots).

Cornerbacks
1, DeAngelo Hall (Redskins); 2, Bryant McFadden (Steelers); 3, Domonique Foxworth (Falcons); 4, André Goodman (Dolphins); 5, Ron Bartell (Rams); 6, Chris McAlister (Ravens); 7, Jabari Greer (Bills); 8, Phillip Buchanon (Buccaneers).

Linebackers
1, Ray Lewis (Ravens); 2, Bart Scott (Ravens); 3, Channing Crowder (Dolphins); 4, Jonathan Vilma (Saints); 5, Michael Boley (Falcons); 6, Mike Peterson (Jaguars); 7, Keith Brooking (Falcons); 8, Marcus Washington (Redskins); 9, Angelo Crowell (Bills); 10, Kevin Burnett (Cowboys); 11, Zach Thomas (Cowboys); 12, Eric Barton (Jets).

Linemen
1, Albert Haynesworth (Titans); 2, Chris Canty (Cowboys); 3, Antonio Smith (Cardinals); 4, Igor Olshansky (Chargers); 5, Jovan Haye (Buccaneers); 6, Kevin Carter (Buccaneers).


OFFENSE

Wide receivers
1, T.J. Houshmandzadeh (Bengals); 2, Nate Washington (Steelers); 3, Lance Moore (Saints); 4, Bobby Engram (Seahawks); 5, Amani Toomer (Giants); 6, Brandon Jones (Titans)

Centers-guards
1, C Jason Brown (Ravens); 2, C Jeff Saturday (Colts); 3, C Matt Birk (Vikings); 4, C Brad Meester (Jaguars); 5, G Chris Kemoeatu (Steelers); 6, G Pete Kendall (Redskins).

Tackles
1, Stacy Andrews (Bengals); 2, Mark Tauscher (Packers); 3, Tra Thomas (Eagles); 4, Jon Stinchcomb (Saints); 5, Khalif Barnes (Jaguars); 6, T Marvel Smith (Steelers).

RUNNING BACKS
1, Derrick Ward (Giants); 2, Fred Taylor (Jaguars); 3, Cedric Benson (Bengals); 4, J.J. Arrington (Cardinals).

Our second round pick is considered a low 1st in most eyes... Greene is not worth that...

Damn those Dolphins. Carey and Crowder were two guys I would have liked to pick up this year.