The Sports World News free agency primer continues until free agency starts on March 11th. Defense is where this free agent class thrives. Whether it is in the front seven or in the secondary, this class is stacked top to bottom. With hours to go before the start of free agency we’ll rank and predict the top three at tackle and at end. The top three at the positions and predictions:
Defensive End: The top talent in the market was scooped up before the start of free agency. Still he class is still loaded even without Michael Bennett, Greg Hardy and Brian Orakpo.
1) Lamarr Houston: Houston benefits from being able to play defensive end in a 4-3 and tackle in a 3-4. Oakland has the most salary cap room to spend and they have to spend it somewhere, thus not completely eliminating Houston returning. Chicago is pushing hard for Houston after Michael Bennett turned them down and its a nice fit.
Prediction: Bears
2) Michael Johnson: Johnson is flying under the radar somewhat considering he is a big piece of what the Bengals do on defense. Now that Mike Zimmer is out in Cincinnati, there is no reason for Johnson to stick around. He will go to a place that will covet his pass rushing ability and be a player the team can build the rest of it’s defense around.
Prediction: Falcons
3) Jared Allen: Allen has been incredibly consistent even as he enters the twilight of his career. He is a great locker room presence and is never a distraction to his team and with his advanced age is a huge plus. Allen will command a larger contract, but for what you get back it is more than worth it. Reports are that it would be a major upset if he doesn’t land in Denver.
Prediction: Broncos
Bonus: Justin Tuck: Buccaneers
Anthony Spencer: Cowboys
Willie Young: Titans
Defensive Tackle: A less talented group that is top heavy. There are potential stars and then the talent level falls off.
1) Arthur Jones: One of the leagues best 3-4 ends and is coming off a career year. He is poised to keep up the president he has set even after he gets the huge contract he deserves.
Prediction: Redskins
2) Linval Joseph: Age is on Josephs side since he will be 26 this coming year. He is an incredible athlete who can get to the quarterback which is a quality few 325-pound frames have. Excels in run defense and can clog multiple holes and take double teams.
Prediction: Vikings
3) Randy Starks: After multiple mediocre sized contracts, it’s time for Starks to cash in. He has been as consistent as they come at tackle and can play the 3-4 or 4-3. Dolphins will regret not paying him when they see him twice a year.
Prediction: Patriots
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