The best remaining free agents in the NFL
After Jadeveon Clowney reached an agreement to stay with the Cleveland Browns, teams will now be looking at the best available free players in the NFL market.
Unearthing a gem that other teams have passed on can often be the most satisfying way to bring about success so here’s who the teams have to choose from.
Odell Beckham
It makes sense for Odell Beckham to stay in Los Angeles and rehab with the Rams after tearing his ACL in the Super Bowl.
However, a rival general manager could be tempted to offer Beckham a strong long-term contract with guaranteed money now, because he’d be worth it in two to three years. Talents like Beckham aren’t usually available in this context.
Duane Brown
Duane Brown solved the Seahawks’ left tackle problem in 2017; he probably had his worst year in Seattle last season before hitting free agency.
He’ll turn 37 before the 2022 campaign begins, and probably won’t continue to get top-tier money, but he shouldn’t be that far away.
Rob Gronkowski is also available but it is not clear if he will retire or not.
Akiem Hicks
Akiem Hicks‘ 2016 signing was one of the best free-agent deals of the last decade. He’s well below his peak and has struggled to stay on the field, but he’d be excellent as a role player; just don’t expect stellar production.
Trey Flowers
Trey Flowers couldn’t stay fit for the last two seasons, but he’ll only be 29 this autumn and he posted a PFF rating above 80 in every season between 2017 and 2020, making him one of the most consistent defensive linemen in football.
There were times in Tennessee when Julio Jones looked back to his old best. But he was only fit enough to catch 31 passes one year after catching just 51 the year before for the Falcons.
He’s barely practiced in the last three years, so it’s a leap of faith, but the upside for high-level No. 2 receiver production is still there if his body is right.