Offline
Every offseason Sean Payton and the folks at Airline Drive divide the Saints offseason needs into 3 categories. Must (highest priority), Needs, and Wants (lowest priority). Now the planning can begin.
There are many knowledgeable fans on here. This is just a consensus of the most logical opinions I’ve read.
MUST
EDGE
Boundary CB
MLB
Weakside LB that can Blitz.
NEEDS
RB/WR Hybrid
Return Specialist
WANTS
Safety
Right Guard
Right Tackle
Every offseason we fill our Must and Needs in Free Agency. The Wants are usually filled with the draft. Here is a list of under the radar budget free agents. I’m limited on time so I’ll just provide quotes about the players and not in depth analysis, but if you guys know more about some of these players please add to the info. This will be fun.
EDGE- 1 Free Agent, 1 Rookie, 1 Project
EDGE Mario Addison CAR 6’3” 250
A former undrafted free agent, Addison has always been a decent pass-rusher, but took his game to the next level in 2016, cracking double-digit sacks for the first time his in career. Ranking second among 4-3 defensive ends in pass-rushing productivity, Addison totaled 10 sacks, five hits, and 51 QB pressures on just 294 pass rushes. In addition to becoming a more impactful pass-rusher, he had his best season in run defense, recording career highs in tackles and defensive stops. Addison will be 29 years old in 2017, so his prime window will be shorter than most, but he’ll prove to be a good sub-package pass-rusher for teams.
https://www.profootballfocus.com/pro-top-10-under-the-radar-players-about-to-hit-free-agency/
EDGE Jabaal Sheard 6’2” 255 NE
Sheard has started just nine games in those two seasons, but has proven to be a decent situational rusher. In 2015, he had eight sacks and forced four fumbles. In 2016, he started more games, but was eventually benched and seemed to lose some favor with his coaches. Sheard finished with just five sacks on the seasons.
In Dallas he would be a great fit in their “rush-men” rotation. The veteran has shown no problem sharing playing time and Dallas would have another savvy pass rusher to employ. After his struggles in 2016, he could also come a lot cheaper than he did during his first venture into free agency.
2017 NFL Free Agency: 5 Budget Targets for Dallas Cowboys | FOX Sports
EDGE Nick Perry 6’3” 265 GB
An every-down player. Perry looks like a player who's equally effective rushing the passer as he is in stuffing the run. He has the size (6-3, 265) to hold his ground against offensive tackles, and strength to overpower tight ends. He's not the best against the run, but he's certainly more than competent. He won't be a liability.
Should Nick Perry be Jets' top free agent target? | NJ.com
EDGE John Simon 6’2” 260 TEX - Outstanding leader and weightroom monster.
Strong, high-motor defender. Can break down to tackle ball carriers in the backfield. Combines agility with excellent upper-body strength to be a secure and explosive tackler. Works down the line with a blocker on his shoulder without giving up ground. Will pressure the upfield shoulder of slower tackles when selling out as a rusher, possesses enough flexibility to capture quarterbacks stepping up in the pocket. Patient when containing, stays engaged until ball carriers goes inside or outside, then rips off to chase. Uses his hands very well, often batting down the arms of linemen attempting to block him. Displays good pad level. Two-time captain leads his teammates vocally and by example.
http://www.milehighreport.com/2013/...lb-john-simon-scouting-profile-denver-broncos
EDGE Lorenzo Alexander 6’1” 245 BUF
For the right reasons, Alexander thrived in now-fired Buffalo Bills head coach Rex Ryan’s defense and earned 12.5 sacks in only his second year as a full-time starter.
Don’t expect this kind of production on a regular basis from the 33-year-old Alexander though.
https://ninernoise.com/2017/01/07/nfl-free-agency-10-radar-players-49ers-sign/amp/10/
EDGE Alex Okafor 6’4” 260 ARI
No team can have too many pass rushers and Okafor has those types of skills. He found a niche role backing up Markus Golden and Chandler Jones, and played well in a sub package that had all three in the game at the same time.
Arizona Cardinals: 4 under-radar free agents to re-sign
LINEBACKER- 1 MLB FA, 1 WLB FA, 1-2 Project players
MLB A.J. Klein 6’1” 240 CAR
Klein played an integral role in the Panthers’ linebacker rotation in 2015 that saw them reach Super Bowl 50, in which he constructed his best statistical season, racking up 55 tackles, one sack, one pass deflection and one interception.
Given his 6-foot-1, 240-pound frame, Klein would be an has the versatility to play both inside and outside linebacker in the ‘multiple’ 4-3 defensive scheme that coach McDermott will be installing.
2017 NFL free agents: 5 linebackers Bills should pursue if Zach Brown walks | Bills Wire
LB Sio Moore 6’1” 245 ARI
Moore, who is listed at 6-foot-1, 245-pounds, is a playmaking linebacker that presents superb athleticism. Moore is a solid tackler that possesses the ability stick with tight ends and larger pass catchers in the passing game. Moore is also a strong linebacker who can play either the strong or weak side. Drafted by the Oakland Raiders in 2013, Moore’s career got off to a quick start. From 2013-2014, Moore recorded 140 tackles and seven-and-half sacks, displaying his versatility within the Raiders’ defense.
2017 NFL free agents: 5 linebackers Bills should pursue if Zach Brown walks | Bills Wire
MLB Bruce Carter NYJ 6’2” 240
Bruce Carter’s outstanding athleticism grants him the versatility to be an excellent fit in McDermott’s defensive scheme. At 6-foot-2, 240-pounds, Carter is an explosive athlete who can cover sideline-to-sideline.
2017 NFL free agents: 5 linebackers Bills should pursue if Zach Brown walks | Bills Wire
He chased money to Tampa Bay and was outplayed by their outstanding young LB’s. He needs to fit into a multiple style defense to thrive. Dennis Allen could utilize him as a coverage LB and get him back to double digit passes defended. He is a small money risk that could pay off.
MLB Gerald Hodges 49ers 6’2” 235
Hodges enjoyed a bit of a breakout season in 2016, earning one of the starting inside linebacker jobs and never looking back. He went on to shine for the 49ers, showing well as a run defender and cover man while racking up 83 tackles, three sacks and two interceptions.
https://www.google.com/amp/www.foxs...oakland-raiders-011917?amp=true?client=safari
Hodges, after initially struggling to adapt to his new team, has played very well for the 49ers. A good run defender and an effective pass-rusher, Hodges’ 9.3 run-stop percentage ranked 13th among linebackers, while his 16.4 pass-rushing productivity mark was 10th-best. His improved coverage in 2016 is what boosted his overall grade, as he allowed a passer rating of 87.3 after surrendering a 125.5 mark in 2015, and 114.3 in 2014. Hodges’ versatility should make him a solid option for any team in free agency.
https://www.profootballfocus.com/pro-top-10-under-the-radar-players-about-to-hit-free-agency/
WLB Jelani Jenkins MIA 6’0” 240
Jenkins was a fourth-round pick by Miami in the 2013 NFL draft. He’s an athletic outside linebacker who primarily played the weakside linebacker role throughout his tenure with the Dolphins. Jenkins showcased his talent in 2014 when he assembled the best season of his career, recording 110 tackles and 3.5 sacks.
2017 NFL free agents: 5 linebackers Bills should pursue if Zach Brown walks | Bills Wire
CORNERBACK - 1 veteran FA
CB Marcus Cooper ARI 6'2" 190 - ProBowl ALT.
Cooper would bring significant experience and playmaking ability to the table, though. The former seventh-round pick has been a pleasant (albeit inconsistent) surprise through four seasons. While he does struggle at times in coverage, he makes up for it with big plays and a physical presence in the run game.
https://www.google.com/amp/www.foxs...oakland-raiders-011917?amp=true?client=safari
CB Logan Ryan 5”11 195 NE - Rarely hurt.
Since 2015, Ryan has tallied 25 pass breakups and six interceptions to go along with 166 combined tackles, showcasing his all-around ability against both the pass and run. One thing that stands out with Ryan is his availability. Ryan has never missed a game yet in his four years in the NFL.
https://www.google.com/amp/billswir...t-if-stephon-gilmore-walks/amp/?client=safari
RETURN SPECIALIST
WR/PR Cordarrelle Patterson 6’2” 220 MIN
The 29th overall pick out of Tennessee in 2013, Patterson performed well when given a chance, but never seemed to fully gain the trust of the Vikings. As a receiver he pulled in 132 career catches for 1,316 yards with seven touchdowns. As a runner, he had 31 rushes for 333 yards and four more touchdowns. Patterson would provide Dallas with a huge upgrade over Whitehead, who they love to use on receiver reverses. Not only that, but Patterson is big enough (6-2, 220 pounds) to also be utilized in the pass game as a receiver.
2017 NFL Free Agency: 5 Budget Targets for Dallas Cowboys | FOX Sports
FS/SS/CB/PR Micah Hyde 6’0” 200 GB
Hyde has shifted inside to cover slot receivers. He has starts at right cornerback, nickel corner and strong safety as well as in three-safety packages. Such responsibilities don’t even include Hyde serving as Green Bay’s primary punt returner and other special-teams duties. Hyde’s defensive durability has allowed Green Bay’s secondary to hang tough.
Hyde credited film study and the play-calling of Dom Capers, calling the long-time coordinator a “genius." Capers said "He knows how to adjust us to get the play-makers to make plays and everyone involved,” Hyde said. “Whether it’s the backup guys or regulars in there, it doesn’t matter. He’s calling the plays and expecting everyone to know them.”
Micah Hyde embodies Packers' versatility, resilience in secondary | NFL | Sporting News
Overall we need a lot on defense. In free agency we need 2-3 LB’s, 1 CB, and most importantly 1-2 EDGE defenders. My ideal somewhat realistic scenario would be…
EDGE Mario Addison CAR 6’3” 250
MLB A.J. Klein CAR 6’1” 240
LB Sio Moore ARI 6’1” 245
LB Bruce Carter NYJ 6’2” 240
CB Marcus Cooper ARI 6'2" 190
FS/SS/CB/PR Micah Hyde - Hard to gauge his value due to his post-season performance. But he is a great player with 3 TD’s as a Punt Returner in addition to consistent DB play.
I would also grab any of the others listed if they were available for minimal contracts. Many of these guys are young role players looking for a chance. And hungry players could change the attitude of this defense. Hopefully into a top 10 unit.
PS- This became a lot longer than I anticipated. Sorry about that. Fingers crossed for a great offseason!
There are many knowledgeable fans on here. This is just a consensus of the most logical opinions I’ve read.
MUST
EDGE
Boundary CB
MLB
Weakside LB that can Blitz.
NEEDS
RB/WR Hybrid
Return Specialist
WANTS
Safety
Right Guard
Right Tackle
Every offseason we fill our Must and Needs in Free Agency. The Wants are usually filled with the draft. Here is a list of under the radar budget free agents. I’m limited on time so I’ll just provide quotes about the players and not in depth analysis, but if you guys know more about some of these players please add to the info. This will be fun.
EDGE- 1 Free Agent, 1 Rookie, 1 Project
EDGE Mario Addison CAR 6’3” 250
A former undrafted free agent, Addison has always been a decent pass-rusher, but took his game to the next level in 2016, cracking double-digit sacks for the first time his in career. Ranking second among 4-3 defensive ends in pass-rushing productivity, Addison totaled 10 sacks, five hits, and 51 QB pressures on just 294 pass rushes. In addition to becoming a more impactful pass-rusher, he had his best season in run defense, recording career highs in tackles and defensive stops. Addison will be 29 years old in 2017, so his prime window will be shorter than most, but he’ll prove to be a good sub-package pass-rusher for teams.
https://www.profootballfocus.com/pro-top-10-under-the-radar-players-about-to-hit-free-agency/
EDGE Jabaal Sheard 6’2” 255 NE
Sheard has started just nine games in those two seasons, but has proven to be a decent situational rusher. In 2015, he had eight sacks and forced four fumbles. In 2016, he started more games, but was eventually benched and seemed to lose some favor with his coaches. Sheard finished with just five sacks on the seasons.
In Dallas he would be a great fit in their “rush-men” rotation. The veteran has shown no problem sharing playing time and Dallas would have another savvy pass rusher to employ. After his struggles in 2016, he could also come a lot cheaper than he did during his first venture into free agency.
2017 NFL Free Agency: 5 Budget Targets for Dallas Cowboys | FOX Sports
EDGE Nick Perry 6’3” 265 GB
An every-down player. Perry looks like a player who's equally effective rushing the passer as he is in stuffing the run. He has the size (6-3, 265) to hold his ground against offensive tackles, and strength to overpower tight ends. He's not the best against the run, but he's certainly more than competent. He won't be a liability.
Should Nick Perry be Jets' top free agent target? | NJ.com
EDGE John Simon 6’2” 260 TEX - Outstanding leader and weightroom monster.
Strong, high-motor defender. Can break down to tackle ball carriers in the backfield. Combines agility with excellent upper-body strength to be a secure and explosive tackler. Works down the line with a blocker on his shoulder without giving up ground. Will pressure the upfield shoulder of slower tackles when selling out as a rusher, possesses enough flexibility to capture quarterbacks stepping up in the pocket. Patient when containing, stays engaged until ball carriers goes inside or outside, then rips off to chase. Uses his hands very well, often batting down the arms of linemen attempting to block him. Displays good pad level. Two-time captain leads his teammates vocally and by example.
http://www.milehighreport.com/2013/...lb-john-simon-scouting-profile-denver-broncos
EDGE Lorenzo Alexander 6’1” 245 BUF
For the right reasons, Alexander thrived in now-fired Buffalo Bills head coach Rex Ryan’s defense and earned 12.5 sacks in only his second year as a full-time starter.
Don’t expect this kind of production on a regular basis from the 33-year-old Alexander though.
https://ninernoise.com/2017/01/07/nfl-free-agency-10-radar-players-49ers-sign/amp/10/
EDGE Alex Okafor 6’4” 260 ARI
No team can have too many pass rushers and Okafor has those types of skills. He found a niche role backing up Markus Golden and Chandler Jones, and played well in a sub package that had all three in the game at the same time.
Arizona Cardinals: 4 under-radar free agents to re-sign
LINEBACKER- 1 MLB FA, 1 WLB FA, 1-2 Project players
MLB A.J. Klein 6’1” 240 CAR
Klein played an integral role in the Panthers’ linebacker rotation in 2015 that saw them reach Super Bowl 50, in which he constructed his best statistical season, racking up 55 tackles, one sack, one pass deflection and one interception.
Given his 6-foot-1, 240-pound frame, Klein would be an has the versatility to play both inside and outside linebacker in the ‘multiple’ 4-3 defensive scheme that coach McDermott will be installing.
2017 NFL free agents: 5 linebackers Bills should pursue if Zach Brown walks | Bills Wire
LB Sio Moore 6’1” 245 ARI
Moore, who is listed at 6-foot-1, 245-pounds, is a playmaking linebacker that presents superb athleticism. Moore is a solid tackler that possesses the ability stick with tight ends and larger pass catchers in the passing game. Moore is also a strong linebacker who can play either the strong or weak side. Drafted by the Oakland Raiders in 2013, Moore’s career got off to a quick start. From 2013-2014, Moore recorded 140 tackles and seven-and-half sacks, displaying his versatility within the Raiders’ defense.
2017 NFL free agents: 5 linebackers Bills should pursue if Zach Brown walks | Bills Wire
MLB Bruce Carter NYJ 6’2” 240
Bruce Carter’s outstanding athleticism grants him the versatility to be an excellent fit in McDermott’s defensive scheme. At 6-foot-2, 240-pounds, Carter is an explosive athlete who can cover sideline-to-sideline.
2017 NFL free agents: 5 linebackers Bills should pursue if Zach Brown walks | Bills Wire
He chased money to Tampa Bay and was outplayed by their outstanding young LB’s. He needs to fit into a multiple style defense to thrive. Dennis Allen could utilize him as a coverage LB and get him back to double digit passes defended. He is a small money risk that could pay off.
MLB Gerald Hodges 49ers 6’2” 235
Hodges enjoyed a bit of a breakout season in 2016, earning one of the starting inside linebacker jobs and never looking back. He went on to shine for the 49ers, showing well as a run defender and cover man while racking up 83 tackles, three sacks and two interceptions.
https://www.google.com/amp/www.foxs...oakland-raiders-011917?amp=true?client=safari
Hodges, after initially struggling to adapt to his new team, has played very well for the 49ers. A good run defender and an effective pass-rusher, Hodges’ 9.3 run-stop percentage ranked 13th among linebackers, while his 16.4 pass-rushing productivity mark was 10th-best. His improved coverage in 2016 is what boosted his overall grade, as he allowed a passer rating of 87.3 after surrendering a 125.5 mark in 2015, and 114.3 in 2014. Hodges’ versatility should make him a solid option for any team in free agency.
https://www.profootballfocus.com/pro-top-10-under-the-radar-players-about-to-hit-free-agency/
WLB Jelani Jenkins MIA 6’0” 240
Jenkins was a fourth-round pick by Miami in the 2013 NFL draft. He’s an athletic outside linebacker who primarily played the weakside linebacker role throughout his tenure with the Dolphins. Jenkins showcased his talent in 2014 when he assembled the best season of his career, recording 110 tackles and 3.5 sacks.
2017 NFL free agents: 5 linebackers Bills should pursue if Zach Brown walks | Bills Wire
CORNERBACK - 1 veteran FA
CB Marcus Cooper ARI 6'2" 190 - ProBowl ALT.
Cooper would bring significant experience and playmaking ability to the table, though. The former seventh-round pick has been a pleasant (albeit inconsistent) surprise through four seasons. While he does struggle at times in coverage, he makes up for it with big plays and a physical presence in the run game.
https://www.google.com/amp/www.foxs...oakland-raiders-011917?amp=true?client=safari
CB Logan Ryan 5”11 195 NE - Rarely hurt.
Since 2015, Ryan has tallied 25 pass breakups and six interceptions to go along with 166 combined tackles, showcasing his all-around ability against both the pass and run. One thing that stands out with Ryan is his availability. Ryan has never missed a game yet in his four years in the NFL.
https://www.google.com/amp/billswir...t-if-stephon-gilmore-walks/amp/?client=safari
RETURN SPECIALIST
WR/PR Cordarrelle Patterson 6’2” 220 MIN
The 29th overall pick out of Tennessee in 2013, Patterson performed well when given a chance, but never seemed to fully gain the trust of the Vikings. As a receiver he pulled in 132 career catches for 1,316 yards with seven touchdowns. As a runner, he had 31 rushes for 333 yards and four more touchdowns. Patterson would provide Dallas with a huge upgrade over Whitehead, who they love to use on receiver reverses. Not only that, but Patterson is big enough (6-2, 220 pounds) to also be utilized in the pass game as a receiver.
2017 NFL Free Agency: 5 Budget Targets for Dallas Cowboys | FOX Sports
FS/SS/CB/PR Micah Hyde 6’0” 200 GB
Hyde has shifted inside to cover slot receivers. He has starts at right cornerback, nickel corner and strong safety as well as in three-safety packages. Such responsibilities don’t even include Hyde serving as Green Bay’s primary punt returner and other special-teams duties. Hyde’s defensive durability has allowed Green Bay’s secondary to hang tough.
Hyde credited film study and the play-calling of Dom Capers, calling the long-time coordinator a “genius." Capers said "He knows how to adjust us to get the play-makers to make plays and everyone involved,” Hyde said. “Whether it’s the backup guys or regulars in there, it doesn’t matter. He’s calling the plays and expecting everyone to know them.”
Micah Hyde embodies Packers' versatility, resilience in secondary | NFL | Sporting News
Overall we need a lot on defense. In free agency we need 2-3 LB’s, 1 CB, and most importantly 1-2 EDGE defenders. My ideal somewhat realistic scenario would be…
EDGE Mario Addison CAR 6’3” 250
MLB A.J. Klein CAR 6’1” 240
LB Sio Moore ARI 6’1” 245
LB Bruce Carter NYJ 6’2” 240
CB Marcus Cooper ARI 6'2" 190
FS/SS/CB/PR Micah Hyde - Hard to gauge his value due to his post-season performance. But he is a great player with 3 TD’s as a Punt Returner in addition to consistent DB play.
I would also grab any of the others listed if they were available for minimal contracts. Many of these guys are young role players looking for a chance. And hungry players could change the attitude of this defense. Hopefully into a top 10 unit.
PS- This became a lot longer than I anticipated. Sorry about that. Fingers crossed for a great offseason!