NFL Free Agency in Review (Pt 1 of 4)
The Good Signings
Some may call this a surprising move considering the how the Steelers often allow veterans to leave their franchise rather than give them pricey extensions late in their careers. However, those same people may forget that the Steelers had LaMarr Woodley and Lawrence Timmons ready to replace Joey Porter and Larry Foote when they began to show their age. In the case of Clark, the Steelers this past season that they lack a promising successor to a very solid defender in Ryan Clark (as backup Tyrone Carter was continually exposed as the Steelers’ pass defense crumbled down the stretch). This is also a solid signing as Clark is a very consistent producer, which is a staple of the Pittsburgh defense; and because of the relatively low cost which Clark signed for seeing as similarly talented and 2.5 year younger FS Antrele Rolle signed for $18 MM more for only 1 extra season. With Clark signed it allows Pittsburgh to focus on more pressing issues such as their inconsistent offensive line, or porous cornerback situation.
Bodden went from small school prospect to high level corner when he sprung onto the scene in 2007 with 6 interceptions and some classic ESPN interview clips responding to the insanity that is Chad Johnson. However, after his emergence, Bodden began to make some contractually related noise and was subsequently traded to Detroit where he quickly fizzled out, only to find himself as the top corner in New England. Bodden proved once again that he is a high talent Corner by racking up 5 interceptions last season earning himself a big pay day in the process. However at the age of 28, and with a play style which hinges on physicality and instincts aside from blazing speed; Bodden may have enough solid seasons ahead of him to play out this contract. Furthermore, the contract which he signed is very inexpensive considering both his solid past, and quality recent production levels. It is a major win for New England as their top corner spot has been in flux since the loss of Asante Samuel to the Eagles.
3) Vince Wilfork, Nose Tackle, New England Patriots (Resigned 5 years, $40MM, $18MM signing bonus, $25MM guaranteed)
While this signing seems like it may be a bit on the pricey side, there is no doubting the value of Vince Wilfork to the New England Patriots. Many say the most important part of a 3-4 defense is the nose tackle, and Wilfork has proven himself to be one of the best every season since being drafted out of Miami. His durability and consistency make him and outstanding candidate for an extension, as well as the fact that nose tackles have proven to be able to perform at a high level late into their careers (Jason Ferguson, Casey Hampton, Jamal Williams, Kelly Gregg).
4) Will Witherspoon, Outside Linebacker, Tennesee Titans (Signed 3 years, $11MM, $7MM guaranteed)
Witherspoon is built to be a Titan linebacker. He is undersized, speedy, able to cover tight ends/slot receivers while also a sure tackler. His fit is perfect, as well as his timing as the Titans are in need of an OLB ever since Pro-Bowler Keith Bullock tore up his knee and could suddenly realize/play his true age (if he is even resigned at all), and opposite OLB starter David Thorton also tore his ACL. Witherspoon will be a nice addition to an already solid Tampa 2 defense which the Titans are beginning to revamp.
This signing goes under the, “amazing….if” category. Kemoeato will be an amazing find for the Skins’…if his Achilles tendon is healed after a rupture and a subsequent botched surgery. The Redskins are switching to the 3-4 defense from the 4-3 however they lack a true nose tackle aside from $100 dollar man Albert Haynesworth who has already declared his dissatisfaction with the idea of being a nose tackle. At 6’5” 345lbs Kemoeatu is the ideal size for a gap plugging NT, and has always been a successful block eater rather than penetrating DT. If he becomes healthy and can solidify the heart of the Redskins’ defense, a $7MM contract is chump change, not to mention if he does not it will not cost Washington much to release him.
Honorable Mention: Considered honorable mention as they were not unrestricted free agent signings but acquired through other ways.
Moore proved his worth last season filling in for Delhomme going 3-1 and throwing 8 touchdowns and only 1 interception. This being the second time that Moore had more than adequately filled in for Delhomme, the Panthers finally gave in and decided that 2011 would be the season that the Oregon State product would get an extended look. The first and third round tender makes it simply improbable that another team would sign Moore away, while giving the Panthers a 1 season look at a potential franchise QB for a mere $3MM. The risk here is that Moore won’t work out and that the Panthers will have to continue their search next season, while the reward could possibly be fining a diamond franchise QB off of the scrap heap for cheap.
Reggie Brown- Trade for a 6th round draft pick in the 2011 NFL Draft (Eagles to Buccaneers)
Brown has had a solid yet unspectacular career since being drafted in the second round out of the University of Georgia. He flashed solid potential in his first, second, and third seasons with 571, 816, and 780 receiving yards, however the past two seasons have been utter disappointment as injuries and inconsistency have often landed Brown on the inactive list. With size (6’1” 200lbs) and solid ability Brown is a great and cheap pick up for the Bucs as they look for weapons to help in the development of franchise QB Josh Freeman.
Stay tuned to the FSB for parts 2-5 of our analysis of the 2010 NFL Free Agency Period. Pt 2 "The Bad Signings" will be online 3-17-2010 at 12:30PM PST!
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