DE and DT NFL Free agency Rankings
July 20, 2011
DE:
- Charles Johnson
- Ray Edwards
- Jason Babin
- Mathias Kiwanuka
- Andre Carter
- Raheem Brock
- Travis LaBoy
- Dave Ball
- Vernon Gholston
- Ray McDonald
Analysis:
This is by no means the deepest position in free agency, but there are a number of quality situational pass rushers. In addition the top 3 names on the list should be major upgrades as every down linemen as well. Johnson and Edwards especially should command big pay days and be difference makers for their new teams. I’d expect a few more names to be added to this list via cuts, but most will be of the platoon variety. One interesting name under the radar is Gholston. He was a complete bust in New York, but he’s still young and pretty athletically gifted. He could be worth a shot if given the right situation.
DT (and 3-4 DE’s and NT’s)
- Barry Coefield
- Shaun Ellis
- Brandon Mebane
- Aubrayo Franklin
- Cullen Jenkins
- Stephen Bowen
- Marcus Spears
- Pat Williams
- Alan Branch
- Shaun Smith
Analysis:
It is a pretty deep year for defensive tackles and 3-4 ends. Unfortunately if you want a NT, it is basically Franklin or bust if you want a difference maker. There is some thought that Coefield could make the transition but obviously that involves a lot of risk. Coefield is a great run stopper and for his size generates a solid pass rush. Any of the top 9 guys could start from day one and there are quite a few other rotational players behind this group as well. It is a good year for big men, and look for another top tackle, Albert Haynesworth, to be moved quickly once free agency begins.
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