2006 Free Agent Tracker - Offense

[PoopyfaceMcGee]

Anyone can run "between the tackles" if they have a gaping hole created for them.  The runners truly adept at it can BOTH make small holes appear large or can create holes of their own with raw power.  Westbrook can only do one of those things - exploiting any hole he's given.  He isn't a tackle-breaker at the point of attack.

[rjs246]

BUT WESTRBOOK RULES! HOW CAN ANYONE SAY ANYTHING NEGATIVE ABOUT WESTBROOK?! LOLOLO!1! HE'S THE BEST WEAPON EVAR!1!!11

[PhillyPhreak54]

Right. Because Westbrook never creates his own lanes, never hits the cutback lane or never breaks a tackle at the POA.

He sucks. Should never have signed him.

[PoopyfaceMcGee]

Right. Because Westbrook never creates his own lanes, never hits the cutback lane or never breaks a tackle at the POA.

He sucks. Should never have signed him.

He rarely creates his own lane.  He often hits a cutbank lane.  He rarely breaks a tackle at the POA.

I love him.  He's a gamebreaker.  He can exploit a defense in the right situation... but he does not strike fear into anyone at the point of attack.  Most of his big runs are around the outside or are YAC.

[Wingspan]

He rarely breaks a tackle at the POA.

i bet you dont even know what that means

[Geowhizzer]

He rarely breaks a tackle at the POA.

i bet you dont even know what that means

Point of attack.  I think. 

[Rome]

He rarely breaks a tackle at the POA.

i bet you dont even know what that means

Piece of ass.

Dopes.

[rjs246]

Pickled Ox Ankle

[Eaglez]

Westbrook is actually pretty good at shedding blockers. And when he doesn't break a tackle he makes people look stupid in the open field.

Westbrook had an amazing run between the tackles against the Dolphins on MNF in 2004. I think it was the 3rd play of the game and he made a ton of people miss. Ran in for the score, if I remember correctly.

[Rome]

The fact that we can remember specific plays when Westbrook had success between the tackles tells you all you need to know about him.

I like him and I think he's an awesome weapon.  I don't think he's the kind of running back that can carry the ball out of the backfield 20-25 times a game, nor do I think he's the kind of guy who can pound it out in the fourth quarter when the Eagles are nursing a tight lead.

Draft LenDale White, Sign Edgerrin James... whatever!  Just sign someone who is a true mauler back there to take the heat off Donovan, already.

[Eaglez]

Would you entertain resigning Duce if he's cut free from the Steelers?

I was contemplating it recently, and I'd take him back. I think he could fill a need, be a pass catching weapon out of the backfield, and assimilate to the team without any problems. Plus he's a good leader.

I just feel shaky drafting offense in the first round when we need tons of help in the LB corps, especially OLB, and we need to solidify the defensive line. Plus, we have to think about the future of our OL.

Priority list:
1. OLB
2. DE/DT
3. OT/OG

I'd consider a WR, but I'd rather pick one up in FA. I think everything will be much clearer when FA actually picks up and if the Eagles establish themselves as major players this FA season.

Hell, there is a great possibility for an uncapped year in 2007, might as well go for it and hand out some decent-sized contracts now.

[Rome]

Z... if I had a time machine handy, I certainly take Duce back.

Fact is, he's done.  Stick a fork in him.

[PhillyPhanInDC]

Some break downs of the the top offensive free agents....

2006 NFL Free Agents:
Offensive Linemen
By: Thomas J Gersey

1. Steve Hutchinson, RG, Seattle

Hutchinson is widely considered the prize in this year's group of free agent offensive linemen. A solid, technically sound guard, Hutchinson won't wow you by obliterating pass rushers. He will however hold his ground against anybody in the league. Still only 28 years old, he has become a perennial Pro Bowler, and was an All-Pro this past season. 6-5, 313 lbs, he is built like a left tackle, but he uses his size as leverage on the right side of the line to hold his ground and prevent the opponent from peeling off and making plays. He plays under control, getting good first steps in the run game, while getting off the line in the passing game, allowing him to create proper holes for his runners, and giving his passers adequate time to get through their reads. He also pulls well, and would be a great fit on a team focused on the ground game while supplanting it with a conservative passing game.

GOOD FITS: Seattle, Minnesota, Washington, Cincinnati, Tampa Bay, Oakland, New York Jets

EARLY PICK: Seattle has been going through this for some time now, knowing that their best players are going to be free agents. First it was Walter Jones, then Hasselbeck and Alexander. Now Hutchinson creates a dilemma as both he and Alexander are free agents this season. Many consider re-signing Alexander a no-brainer, but there have been some in the know who believe maintaining the core of the offensive line and handing the job to Maurice Morris may be the more prudent move. Most likely, the 'Hawks will give a long term deal to Alexander, while franchising Hutchinson for this season, then weighing their options next year. They have needs at defensive end and wide receiver, so they will have some decisions to make. If Seattle does let Hutchinson walk, Washington and Minnesota seem like perfect fits. Both need a right guard, and with the potential departure of Culpepper in Minnesota, both run a similar ball control offense, predicated on minimizing mistakes, that would highlight Hutchinson's skills. If neither is a fit, Cincy, Tampa, Oakland and the Jets could all use a Pro Bowl guard.

2. LeCharles Bentley, C, New Orleans


Bentley has good size at 6'2, 313, but it better known for his quickness. Quick footwork gets him out of his stance, and out blocking linebackers when necessary. His is lithe and swift off the snap, and is the rare center who can get out and pull. For all of his size, he does tend to get pushed around by very physical nose tackles, as his slight lack of lower body strength keeps him from maintaining position against a fierce bull rush. However, Bentley is tenacious and fiesty, and will not give up even when he appears to be overmatched. He is smart and consistent, and makes good adjustments at the line. Only 26, Bentley is better when he can get out and move, unblocked, and would fit best with a team that can surround him with Pro Bowl caliber players.

GOOD FITS: Buffalo, Atlanta, Carolina, New England, NY Giants, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Tampa Bay, New Orleans

EARLY PICK: New Orleans has a few free agents, but Bentley is the only one who is a must re-sign. It is possible he would be franchised, but the question remains how wise that would be with a center. However, with the Saints likely to rebuild around Matt Leinart or Vince Young, protecting their investment makes the most sense. Look for the Saints to retain Bentley at any and all costs. If not, any of the above listed contenders would be a fantastic fit. Most notably, the Steelers are said to be very interested in Bentley.

3. Jon Runyan, RT, Philadelphia


At 6'7, 330, Runyan is a mammoth blocker who locks on to an end shuts him down at the point of attack. Only the fastest, most athletic ends can hope to evade Runyon, but anything less than the best, and Runyon will clamp down, and control a pass rusher. He excels in short yardage situations, where his nasty streak comes into play, and he can maul everything in front of him. A very good run blocker, he is a superb pass blocker, acting as a wall between the defender and his quarterback, forcing them far outside their rush lanes. He is seldom beaten by double moves, and for all of his size, has a sound technique. His only drawback is his age, though linemen have a greater life expectancy in the league than other players. Would be worth a 3-4 year deal from a contender.

GOOD FITS: Philadelphia, Atlanta, Baltimore, New England, San Francisco

EARLY PICK: Runyon is likely to remain in Philadelphia, where they can't afford to lose him. Atlanta is in the market for elite lineman, as is San Francisco, who has holes everywhere. New England and Baltimore could use upgrades at Right Tackle, and Runyon is the best of the bunch.

4. Mike Flanagan, C, Green Bay


Flanagan is emblematic of the new breed of lineman, smaller, but able to rely on good technique with his hands and feet to excel in run block schemes. Flanagan is at his best when allowed to block back, or to set up precise blocking angles, and would fit well with a team that focuses on blocking schemes, rather than a "smash mouth" style. Flanagan is consistent, and rarely makes a mistake. However, he can be overpowered, but even then, he does not get beat so badly as to pose a threat to his quarterback. He also performs well in the shotgun formation, and shows great ability to adjust to stunts and blitzes, picking up players who beat his guards. Like Runyon, age is an issue.

GOOD FITS: Green Bay, Atlanta, New England, Tampa Bay, Buffalo, Carolina

EARLY PICK: After the departure of Marco Rivera and Mike Wahle last season, and the debacle that followed, the Packers would be loathe to let another elite blocker walk this season. Expect the Packers to bring Flanagan back as they attempt to squeeze a final season out of Brett Favre. If he walks, Flanagan would excel in Atlanta where they run similar blocking schemes to the Broncos, relying on trapping and pulling. Buffalo and Carolina may lose their centers, creating holes in those lines.

5. Jeff Backus, LT, Detroit


Still only 28, this former first rounder is your typical fill in the blank kind of lineman. Nothing super special, he won't hurt you. You can stick him into the line, and forget about him. He is tough, aggressive, and intelligent, with a sound work ethic and technique. He lacks ideal size, but he will scrap and fight when he feels he is getting beat. Will never give up on a play, though he may still get beat by an elite pass rusher. He will never overpower a player, but he also will rarely get run over. Slightly above average, he should be on the shopping list for any team with severe problems on the left side.

GOOD FITS: Detroit, Cleveland, San Francisco

EARLY PICK: Detroit will likely keep Backus in the Silver and Blue, but a team like Cleveland could look to Backus if LJ Shelton were to walk. The Niners are also in a major rebuilding mode, and Backus would be the perfect low cost option, someone they could plug in and leave ther for 10 years.

OTHER FREE AGENTS OF NOTE:

LJ Shelton, LT, Cleveland: Shelton is a massive left tackle, who has just never fully developed. Excellent talent, but something has always been lacking. If he could harness his ability, and learn to be more of a force inside, Shelton could be a real steal. San Fran should take a look at him, and the Lions should take a look at this Michigan native should Backus walk.

Vicor Riley, RT, Houston: Excels against smaller ends, and can get beat by more athletic players. An 8 year veteran, he has good technique and strength, and has learned how to makeup for initial mistakes. Not an elite lineman, he is a solid upgrade for many teams. May be a good fit in Arizona.

Jeff Mitchell, C, Car/Melvin Fowler, C, Minn/Justin Hartwig, C, Tennessee/Andy McCollum, C, St Louis: Along with Flanagan and Bentley, there is a bumper crop of centers this season. Most teams will likely keep their centers, but as soon as one walks, look for a game of musical chairs to take place as teams scramble to fill needs. All four of these guys would fit in well anywhere. None is a pro bowl caliber player, but all are solid, dependable veterans.

[PhillyPhanInDC]

2006 NFL Free Agents:
Wide Receiver
By: Thomas J Gersey

1. Reggie Wayne, Indianapolis [83 rec, 1008 yds, 5 td]

Wayne is very close to being the complete package. He has soft hands, and consistently makes the easy catches. He can make the acrobatic ones, but not often enough to be considered an elite, game changing player. His speed is better than average, though some top notch corners will be able to keep up with him. His strength is excellent route running. He has excelled in Indianapolis, where precise routes will get you the football consistently with Peyton Manning behind center. So effective has Wayne become that the past two years he has gone from a distant number 2 receiver, to the Colts' 1(a). He definitely benefits from his supporting cast, and it is tough to say whether or not he could be a #1 on a less talented team. However, he is certain to be more like P Burress than P Price if he were to change teams.

GOOD FITS: Chicago, Atlanta, Denver, Kansas City, Philadelphia, Washington, Indianapolis

EARLY PICK: Wayne is a player who will be most effected by the actions of Edgerring James. If James and Dwight Freeney sign large deals, Wayne will likely find a huge payday elsewhere. If James leaves, the Colts will keep Wayne, and maintain their dominance through the air. In the event Wayne does leave, he will likely seek a situation where he either be the number 1 guy from day one, or be 1(a) again, with top receiver status looming in the near future. He would be more of a complementary player in Chicago or Washington, and those are run-happy offenses. In Denver, he would replace Ashlie Lelie as Rod Smith's heir apparant, and maintain his place on a winning ball club. Teams like KC and Philly make the most sense, where there are established passing offenses in place with Pro Bowl caliber QBs calling the plays. I expect KC to make a very strong push for his services.

2. Antonio Bryant, Cleveland [69 rec, 1009 yds, 4 td]

Putting up a 1000 yard season in Indy is one thing, but doing it in Cleveland with a more heralded first rounder flanking you is another. Bryant is the prototypical receiver, with good size, and very good speed. He runs very efficient routes, and gets off the line exceptionally quick. Though his speed gets him into his routes early, he does not have break away speed in the deep open field, although his strength and body control allow him to position himself for the deep bal very well. He has the desire and competitive spirit you want in a top receiver, and will fight any corner on every pass. He was a top 15 talent as a college junior, but demonstrated immaturity as a senior and slipped to the late second round, so there are questions about his attitude. However, he has been a solid citizen in Cleveland and if those doubts are erased, would be an excellent fit on any team looking for a dependable number 2 receiver.

GOOD FITS: Minnesota, Baltimore, Carolina, Houston, Tennessee, Washington, Cleveland, Atlanta

EARLY PICK: Bryant is a wild card, because there is little information in regards to how teams perceive him. He has been under the radar, with the thought that he could break out in the right situation. Where he will end up is anyone's guess, but a team with a solid passing game and a need for a quick, physical receiver would be the perfect fit. Atlanta would be a great team for Bryant, as Mike Vick could use a dependable receiver who will fight for wayward passes. In Carolina, he would be a great Robin to Steve Smith's superman, while in places like Tennessee or Baltimore, he could be the number one receiver in title only, as those offenses will look to move the ball around evenly.

3. Antwan Randle El, Pittsburgh [35 rec, 558 yds, 1 td]

A converted quarterback, there was never any question that Randle El's athleticism would convert to the next level. However, there has always been a question as to whether or not he could pick up the nuances of the position. In his 4 years in the league, Randle El has put those worries to rest, and become Slash II in the Pittsburgh system. Randle El is agile and shifty, almost impossible to get a direct hit on. He has sufficient size and strength to go in the middle of the field, and often performs better there, where a quick pass allows him to out-manuever linebackers one-on-one. On a team that emphasises the run game, there aren't many opportunities for a third receiver, however, Randle El has consistently made the most of his time on the field. Couple with that his track record as a return man, and his value to a contender could be considerable.

GOOD FITS: Chicago, Pittsburgh, New England, San Diego

EARLY PICK: Rumor has it that Chicago is already targeting Randle El this free agent season. Typically, the Bears identify a player they want, and they do what it takes to get him (see: Muhammad, T Jones). This year should be no different. Expect the Bears to overpay for Randle El, and put him in the slot, where he is comfortable, giving Rex Grossman a more reliable option than he has had in the past. Throw in Randle El's Illinois roots, and it becomes a match made in heaven.

4. Keenan McCardell, San Diego [70 rec, 917 yds, 9 td]

Excellent hands and a feel for his place on the field, McCardellis the type of number 1 receiver you like to have. He has the inate ability to find holes in the zone and get open on a consistent basis. He isn't a speed burner, and can be shut down by elite corners, but even then, he manages to get his 4-5 catches and find space in the end zone. He is nearing the end of his career, and at 36 is a risky proposition as a free agent. However, with the success of guys like Jerry Rice and Joey Galloway recently, production is all that matters, and McCardell is certainly capable of that. Similarly sized to Antonio Bryant, he isnt nearly as strong or as physical, and will not win as many battles as he loses. A possession receiver at this point, but with the ability to stretch the field when the defense allows it. Not very strong after the catch.

GOOD FITS: San Diego, Houston, Carolina, New England, Kansas City, Denver

EARLY PICK: McCardell's place is on a team seeking a stop gap, an effective receiver to hold down the position until a younger player can fill it. Teams like Carolina, New England and Denver are super bowl contenders who could strengthen already effective offenses with a savvy veteran like McCardell. In the long run, San Diego can't afford to lose him right now, and will work hard to sign him to a short term deal before the free agent period. Houston is the wild card. With Gary Kubiak and Reggie Bush joining the Texans, McCardell would be the perfect supplement to the young and athletic Andre Johnson. McCardell is a Houston native, and ending his career at home isn't too far fetched an idea.

5. Joe Jurevicius, Seattle [55 rec, 694 yds, 10 td]

The prototypical possession receiver. All he does? Catch touchdowns. When Darrell Jackson went down with an injury, Jurevicius stepped up and saved the Seahawks season. This is his third Super Bowl appearance with his third different team, which says something about his contribution in the locker room. He is a top notch character guy, and brings more than athletic gifts to any team. He has excellent hands, and size that rivals most tight ends. At 6'5, 230 lbs, Jurevicius fits great in the slot, where he can handle linebackers, or on the outside, where he can screen smaller defensive backs. He is smart and seasoned, and knows how to get open. Seattle would love to keep him, and will likely try their best to do so. But after a Super Bowl run with more pressing free agents, there just may not be enough money.

GOOD FITS: Seattle, Washington, Carolina, Denver, Pittsburgh

EARLY PICK: Where he will end up is anyone's guess. He fits best with a contender who relies on a ball control offense. Seattle and Carolina aren't really his best fits, but he would be a sound complimentary receiver in either offense. The memories of Ed McCaffery are still fresh in the minds of Broncos fans, and Jurevicious could easily be a similar complement to Rod Smith for the next couple years. A player like Jake Plummer needs as many veteran players on the field to be effective. In Washington, he would team well with a player like Mark Brunell, and offer the soft touch to compliment the lightning of Santana Moss. Pittsburgh makes a great deal of sense. The Steelers rarely make big name signings, instead spending their money wisely on role players. With Randle El likely to leave, Jurevicius (who played at Penn State) could step in and be a third sure handed target for the conservative Rothlisberger.

OTHER FREE AGENTS OF NOTE:

Koren Robinson, Minnesota: A gifted receiver with significant problems catching the ball, Robinson had a late season rebirth after legal troubles got him released in Seattle. Still young and talented, some team will give him an incentive-laden shot in the hopes of untapping his undeniable potential.

David Givens, New England: He and Troy Brown are solid if unspectacular Patriot receivers available this offseason. In today's NFL, Givens is the type of player not exciting enough to warrant a long look from other teams, who will end up signing with his previous team for a reasonable amount.

Brandon Lloyd, SF/ Kevin Curtis, STL/ Nate Burleson, Minn: These are the top notch restricted FAs. Lloyd is going no where, as the Niners cant afford to lose anyone with any talent currently in red and gold. Curtis was a revelation in St Louis, and it is possible a bad team may overpay for his speed and excitement....and make a huge mistake. Burleson was supposed to supplant Randy Moss as the go-to guy in Minnesota, and will likely re-sign for a second shot under new guidance. Patience, however, is wearing thin.

[PhillyPhanInDC]

2006 NFL Free Agents:
Running Backs
By: Thomas J Gersey

1. Shaun Alexander, Seattle

Following an MVP campaign, the value for Alexander has never been higher. At 5'11, 225, Alexander is a load who excels between the tackles. His style has been perfect for the Seahawks, who boast an exceptional line able to create a multitude of holes through which Alexander is adept at squeezing. In the open-field he is a load to bring down, and has just enough secondary speed to turn 10 yard runs into 25 yarders. For all of his physical gifts, he isn't a shifty runner, and if placed behind a lower calibur line, would surely find difficulty replicating his Seattle performance. He catches most passes thrown to him, but isnt so elusive that he can create much in one-on-one situations.

GOOD FITS: Seattle, Denver, Atlanta, Arizona, Carolina, Minnesota, Philadelphia

EARLY PICK: The bottom line is that if Alexander hits the open market, any and all teams looking for an elite back will come calling. His best fit is in Seattle where the fans love him, and the schemes the Seahawks run play specifically to his strengths. Teams like Denver and Atlanta have been shuttling between backs for years, and both teams run speciallized blocking schemes that could allow Alexander to maintain his production. In Philadelphia or Carolina, he would looked upon to step in and mimic his 2005 production, which may prove to be more difficult than one would expect. Arizona is sure to make an offer, but Alexander would almost certainly see his performance cut in half should he go that route.

2. Edgerrin James, Indianapolis

Alexander's status as the league MVP and a lack of injuries are the only things placing him ahead of James on this list. The Edge is a strong runner between the tackles, with the ability to wear down a defense over the course of game. However, he also has the quickness to hit the corner and stretch the defense across the field. Also a tremendous receiver, his versatility has long been an overlooked factor in the success of the Colts passing game. The many looks James gives a defense forces it to spread itself thin in anticipation of a variety of plays. He is an adquate blocker in pass protection, and shows good awareness in recognizing different defensive packages. Health is obviously an issue, as he has missed time with knee, angle and rib injuries.

GOOD FITS: Indianapolis, Jacksonville, Carolina, Philadelphia, NY Jets, Baltimore

EARLY PICK: Edge is likely to seek out either a warm weather franchise or one playing in a large media market. It is no secret that he is less than enamored with the Midwest, and should the Colts show a waning interest in resigning him (as they are) he is likely to seek out a long term deal elsewhere. Jacksonville doesn't have a need at running back, but Fred Taylor has been twice the injury risk that James has been, and with Edge's desire to return home to Florida, the Jags are really the only viable candidate in the state for his services. Carolina is the only other possible destination that meets James' climate requirements, unless one actually believes he would subject himself to the losing ways of the Cardinals. Teams like the Jets and Ravens may create needs as they say goodbye to aging veterans and free agents, respectively. Those two and Philly would all be large media markets in which Edge would be a featured player on offense.

3. Jamal Lewis, Baltimore

Will the real Jamal Lewis, please stand up? After a 2000 yard season, Lewis showed the effects incarceration as he slipped to a dismal 906 yards and 3 touchdowns. On a team that needed an effective runner to take the pressure off of Kyle Boller, Lewis consistently came up short. Lewis is a big back (245 lbs) whose strength is his tremendous feet and balance. His legs constantly move, even when met with multiple tacklers. He isn't a burner, but he has very good cut back ability, and enough speed to break the occasional long run. More than a glorified fullback, Lewis is agile and has excellent vision. Lewis is a below average receiver who would not fit will in a west coast offensive scheme.

GOOD FITS: Baltimore, Cleveland, Green Bay, Carolina, Minnesota

EARLY PICK: Wherever he ends up, Lewis will have to play at a discount. His off the field problems coupled with their effect on his on the field play will both be red flags for any team that considers bringing him on board. Baltimore will likely keep Lewis, but for much less money than Im sure he expected to sign for this season. Should Ahman Green leave GB, he might be a good fit there, where his style would adapt well to the cold weather, and the possibility of off the field trouble would be greatly diminished. Carolina and Minnesota are candidates for any top tier running back, while Cleveland may wish to sign him simply to prevent him from racking up his usual 200 yards a game against them.

4. DeShaun Foster, Carolina

Another exceptional athlete who has become an injury risk. At 222 lbs, Foster is bigger than most people think, and couples that size with very good speed. He runs a tad upright, but compensates for that with excellent vision and cutback ability, thus limiting the shots he takes. However, he hasn't demonstrated he can be a workhourse back, and when he gets tired, tends to take more abuse than he does early in the game. An average ball catcher, he has struggled with fumble problems as well, and could quickly become a liability if he can't control those problems. Showed he might be ready to take the leap to elite status with 150 yards in his first playoff game, but followed that up with a broken leg in his next game.

GOOD FITS: Carolina, Baltimore, Minnesota, Indianapolis, Arizona, San Francisco, Philadelphia

EARLY PICK: Foster could prove to be a steal, and his latest injury will likely make him affordable to most teams. While he would fit well with teams like Philly or Minnesota, it is more than likely that he will attempt to cash in on his promise as a feature back with a desperate team like Zona or San Fran.

5. Ahman Green, Green Bay

Green was once an elite back, who brought the complete package to the table. When he is healthy, he posseses game breaking speed, along with a willingness to lower his pads and take on multiple tacklers. He lacks in the more specialized areas, showing a disdain for blocking, and on occasion, an inability to maintain control of the football. However, he makes up for it with the ability to both carry the load out of the backfield, and add another reciever to the mix once in the open field. He has soft hands and excellent vision, with the first step ability to outrun defenders. Obviously, he is a huge risk, having been had numerous injury problems the past two seasons. At 28, he may be on the steep down side of this career, and any team bringing him on board would be wise to handcuff him with a young backup.

GOOD FITS: Green Bay, Minnesota, Arizona, Cleveland

EARLY PICK: Feel free to add any of the aforementioned teams to this list, but he makes the most sense in one of these four cities, where he could be a bargain as a feature back, with the insurance of a young back already in the mix. If his knees can take it, he would likely excel in Minnesota where the turf would play to his strength. In Arizona or Cleveland, he would be worth the risk, as both teams have other alternatives should he falter. Wherever Green goes, he will have to take an incentive-laden deal.