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41. NT/DT Paul Soliai (Miami)- Resigned 2 years 18 million

Paul Soliai had a breakout year in a contract year in 2010 and was franchised by Miami in order to prove he was more than a one year wonder. He wasn’t bad in 2011, but he wasn’t as good and likely cost himself some money. However, there’s a demand for 3-4 nose tackles on the market and Soliai doesn’t turn 29 until December. He probably won’t be back in Miami as they switch to a 4-3, but someone will give him a good amount of money. 

42. TE Jermichael Finley (Green Bay)- resigned 2 years 15 million

He’s got the talent, but he’s never put it together. He had an excellent 2^nd half in 2009 as he took the starting job and was off to a great start in 2010 before suffering a major injury. He started 2011 out well, but ultimately ended up with just 55 catches for 767 yards and 8 touchdowns, not bad, but short of expectations, especially with Aaron Rodgers throwing the ball all over the field. He also dropped 12 passes, 5^th most among receivers and most among tight ends. This was a real problem for him down the stretch. The upside is still there and he turns just 25 in March, but I’d be worried about giving him a huge long term deal on potential. Make him prove himself for a full season first. 

43. OT Eric Winston (Houston)- Signed with Kansas City 4 years 22 million

The Texans made a surprising decision to cut Eric Winston. The release may signal that the cap pressed Texans are gearing up for a run at Peyton Manning or Mike Wallace, or perhaps to strength their offer to resign Mario Williams. Either way, Winston will command a pretty penny on the open market. In an offensive tackle class full of injury prone (Jared Gaither, Demetrius Bell), tried and failed starters (Jeff Backus, Levi Brown), and unproven former backups (Anthony Collins), Winston is a legitimate above average right tackle. Last season he allowed 7 sacks and 9 penalties, but only 20 total pressures, while being ProFootballFocus’ 4th ranked run blocking offensive tackle. ProFootballFocus graded him as their 11th overall offensive tackle. There’s questions about his scheme versatility and ability to play on the left side, but I would be surprised if he didn’t exceed the 5.5 million he was owed by the Texans in 2012.

44. RB Michael Bush (Oakland)- Signed with Chicago 4 years 14 million with 7 million guaranteed

Michael Bush got a taste at being a lead back in 2011 with Darren McFadden hurt and he wants to continue to be one in 2012. However, it probably won’t be in Oakland as they’re not likely to trade Darren McFadden. Bush will get looks on the open market, but teams should remember he turns 28 in June (basically 33 in running back years) and that he averaged just 3.8 YPC last season as a starter, including less than 4 YPC in 6 of his last 7 games. Teams would be better off drafting someone like Trent Richardson, David Wilson, Lamar Miller, Doug Martin, or Chris Polk in the first 3 rounds of the 2012 NFL Draft than committing significantly money to Michael Bush.

45. WR Pierre Garcon (Indianapolis)- Signed with Washington 5 years 42.5 million with 21.5 million guaranteed

Garcon doesn’t turn 26 until August and the former undrafted free agent just had a career year at the right time, catching 70 passes for 947 yards and 6 touchdowns. Even more impressive, he did that without Peyton Manning, the only Colt receiver to do so. He recently turned down a 5 year deal from the Colts because of Manning’s uncertain future. If Manning isn’t back, Garcon could very well not be either. On the other hand, the 35 million over 5 the Colts offered him might be the best he gets so he could be back.

46. OLB Erin Henderson (Minnesota)- Resigned 1 year 2 million

Erin Henderson came into the season as EJ Henderson’s former undrafted free agent younger brother and had to battle for the starting weakside linebacker job in Minnesota. Now, he’s one of the best young linebackers in the league. 26 in July, Henderson is coming off a season in which ProFootballFocus ranked him 4^th among 4-3 outside linebackers. After 70 tackles in 2011, Henderson is due for a solid payday.

47. DE/RLB Robert Mathis (Indianapolis)- resigned for 4 years 36 million with 15 million guaranteed

Mathis has 83.5 career sacks in 9 seasons, 80 in 8 seasons if you take out his rookie season. However, there are 3 concerns. One, how would he fare without Dwight Freeney opposite him? Two, how would he fare outside of the Colts system. He’s undersized at 245, but has never played in a 3-4. Three, he just turned 31. He’ll get money somewhere, though he probably won’t stick around for the Colts’ rebuilding project and switch to a 3-4 defense, but he’s not without risks.

48. WR Mario Manningham (NY Giants)- Signed with San Francisco 2 years 7.4 million

Mario Manningham had 60 catches for 944 yards and 9 touchdowns in 2010 and was due for a better season in 2011, as Steve Smith left for Philadelphia. However, injuries and the emergence of Victor Cruz limited him to 39 catches for 523 yards and 4 touchdowns, though he did have a huge catch in the Super Bowl. He’s a talented player, but he probably won’t be back with the Giants. He’d be their #3 receiver and they already have an in house replacement in 2011 3^rd round pick Jerel Jernigan so they won’t offer him as much money as someone looking at him as a #2 option. Someone will pay him as that though and they will probably end up pleased with the signing, though you never know with receivers switching teams. Manningham is still young too, turning just 26 in May.

49. S Michael Griffin (Tennessee)- Franchise tagged

A 1^st round pick in 2007, Griffin was ProFootballFocus’ 13^th ranked safety last season. In 5 years, Griffin, who just turned 27, has 389 tackles and 17 interceptions, while being at least average against the pass. He’s expected to be franchised, but if he isn’t, he could rejoin Jeff Fisher in St. Louis.

50. OT Jared Gaither (San Diego)- Resigned 4 years 24.6 million with 9 million guaranteed

Jared Gaither was on his way to being a franchise left tackle for 8-10 years in Baltimore, before back injuries bounced him to Oakland then Kansas City and eventually San Diego, where he actually played well down the stretch last season. He’s no sure thing going forward, but he’s a potential left tackle long term so the Chargers will push big time to resign him, especially after cutting Marcus McNeill. After all he’s been through, he’ll only be 26 in March.

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31. MLB/OLB D’Qwell Jackson (Cleveland)- Resigned 5 years 42.5 million with 16.8 million guaranteed

The NFL’s leader in tackles in 2008 with 154, Jackson played just 6 games combined in 2009 and 2010, but bounced back big time with 158 tackles this year. Jackson is no sure thing going forward, but he’s a talented linebacker, the leader of their defense, and doesn’t turn 29 until September so the Browns are expected to make a big push to resign him to a long term deal. 

32. DE John Abraham (Atlanta)- Resigned 3 years 21 million

I bet you’d never guess John Abraham is 16^th all time with 112 career sacks, most among active players. However, he’s 34 in May and he wouldn’t be a very good fit for a 3-4 so he won’t be on the radar of about half the league. The Falcons seem content to let him explore the open market in hopes he doesn’t find anything better than he can get in Atlanta. Atlanta has turned their focus to locking up younger defensive players like Brent Grimes, who is expected to be franchised, and Curtis Lofton. 9.5 sacks last year shows he can still play at a high level, but for how long? 

33. MLB David Hawthorne (Seattle)

The Seahawks got an undrafted steal with Hawthrone, who has 338 tackles in the last 3 years and turns 27 in May. However, they seem content to let him go if he can find someone who will overpay. The Seahawks seem to have made Red Bryant and Marshawn Lynch their offseason priorities.

34. G Ben Grubbs (Baltimore)- Signed with New Orleans 5 years 36 million with 15 million guaranteed

Another player who could go elsewhere, Grubbs, who was the 10^th best guard in the league last year according to ProFootballFocus, wants a contract bigger than teammate Marshal Yanda got last offseason (5 years 32.5 million). Yanda actually ranked 2^nd according to ProFootballFocus and Grubbs is not expected to get that kind of money from Baltimore, who has other free agents to resign. Grubbs, however, is only 28 in March and is a nice above average option at guard for the right price.

35. WR Brandon Lloyd (St. Louis)- Signed with New England 3 years 12 million

This is an interesting one. Brandon Lloyd actually led the league in receiving in 2010 with 77 catches for 1448 yards and 11 touchdowns and was no slouch in 2011 with 70 catches for 966 yards and 5 touchdowns. However, he turns 31 in July and has always struggled outside of Josh McDaniels’ system. He wasn’t that great in 4 games with Denver last season without McDaniels before getting traded to St. Louis and reuniting with McDaniels. In St. Louis, he put up good numbers in 11 games despite inconsistencies at quarterback. McDaniels is in New England now and Lloyd has smartly said he’d like to follow him. If he’ll take a discount, he’ll be a Patriot. If he won’t, he could go elsewhere, but might not have a ton of success.

36. DE Jeremy Mincey (Jacksonville)- Resigned 4 years 27.2 million with 9 million guaranteed

Jeremy Mincey came out of nowhere to have 8 sacks and 38 pressures this season and also was above average against the run at 6-3 270. ProFootballFocus rated him as their 12^th rated defensive end. The Jaguars need to retain him because he’s the only player on their roster who can consistently get to the quarterback. 28 until December, Mincey should get a solid payday this offseason.

37. DE/RLB Mark Anderson (New England)- Signed with Buffalo 4 years 27.2 million with 8 million guaranteed

Mark Anderson has played 6 seasons since being drafted in the 1^st round in 2006 and he’s had 2 good ones and 4 bad. In 2006 as a rookie, he had 12 sacks for Chicago. And this past year, he had 10 sacks for New England. In between, he managed just 13.5 sacks in 4 seasons for Chicago and Houston. He’ll be risky to give a long term deal to and if he’s smart, he’ll take a hometown discount in New England, where he really seems to fit the scheme well. Anderson turns 29 in May.

38. C Scott Wells (Green Bay)- Signed with St. Louis 4 years 24 million with 13 million guaranteed

Scott Wells has emerged as one of the best centers in the league, 4^th rated by ProFootballFocus this last season, but the Packers are playing hardball with him, offering him 4-5 million per year when he wants 7.5 million. He could end up elsewhere, especially since the Packers have been linked to Chris Myers. However, if Myers signs elsewhere, Wells would have a lot more leverage. The Packers don’t have a clear successor on the roster and there isn’t anything other than over the hill veterans on the market after Myers and Wells.

39. RLB/OLB Jarret Johnson (Baltimore)- Signed with San Diego 4 years 19 million with 7 million guaranteed

Not much of a pass rusher, in fact, he’s only had 20 sacks in 9 seasons and never gone over 6, Johnson is one of the better run stuffing linebackers in the league and plays both the 3-4 and 4-3 in Baltimore. He could follow Chuck Pagano to Indianapolis and would have value as a 2 down run stuffing linebacker for either a 4-3 or a 3-4 team on the open market. Resigning in Baltimore is also an option for Johnson, who turns 31 in August.

40. CB Carlos Rogers (San Francisco)- Resigned 4 years 29.3 million

Carlos Rogers broke out last season, his first in San Francisco, and rightfully made the Pro Bowl. He allowed a 52.8% completion percentage and 7.2 YPA with 3 touchdowns to 6 interceptions. However, I’m always worried about players who have their best season in a contract year after age 30 (31 in July), especially underachieving former first round picks like Rogers. He’s also got a history of injury problems. I’d be worried about giving him a big long term deal and it sounds like the 49ers might be as well. They’re refusing to give him the 4-5 year deal he wants.

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21. MLB London Fletcher (Washington)

A future Hall of Famer, Fletcher continues to prove doubters wrong. A former undrafted free agent, no one thought he could be a starter in this league. Now that he’s getting older, everyone assumes that he’ll start to decline. He hasn’t yet. 37 in May, Fletcher is no sure thing going forward, but he’s surpassed 125 tackles in every season since 2010, a feat almost as impressive as his 1782 career tackles, unofficially 5^th all-time. 

22. WR Steve Johnson (Buffalo)- Resigned for 5 years 36.25 million with 19.5 million guaranteed

He might be a little over the top and struggle with drops, but Steve Johnson has emerged as a legitimate #1 option over the last 2 years, putting up 82/1073/10 and 76/1004/7. He and Ryan Fitzpatrick have great chemistry and wide receivers are almost always better off staying than going when they hit free agency. Good news for him, it looks like he’ll be resigned to a long term deal. 26 in July, Johnson has a bright future ahead of him.

23. CB Brandon Carr (Kansas City)- Signed in Dallas for 5 years 50.1 million

Brandon Flowers and Brandon Carr are one of the best cornerback duos in the league, or at least they were. The Chiefs signed Stanford Routt, a cap casualty from Oakland, ahead of free agency as a cheaper option than Carr to start opposite Flowers so it looks like Carr will not be back in Kansas City unless he takes a major hometown discount. Carr allowed a mere 49.4% completion percentage last year with 6.5 YPA and 3 touchdowns to 4 interceptions. 26 in May, the only concern I have with Carr is how he’ll do without Brandon Flowers opposite him. Just because Johnathan Joseph successfully did the #2 to #1 cornerback transition last offseason doesn’t mean Carr will. He’s best off going to a team to be the #2 guy and should be paid as such (though he’s one of the top #2 guys in the league). Dallas is an obvious possible destination for him.

24. S Tyvon Branch (Oakland)- Franchise tagged

The Raiders aren’t in the best cap situation, but they still want to at least franchise Branch, one of the leading tacklers for a defensive back with 337 tackles in the last 3 years. He’s average in coverage, but above average against the run and one of the best young safeties in the game. In fact, he doesn’t turn 26 until December. The Raiders would be well served resigning him, assuming they don’t overpay. Franchising him is another smart option.

25. RLB/DE Ahmad Brooks (San Francisco)- Resigned 6 years 44.5 million with 19 million guaranteed

Ahmad Brooks had a career year last year with 7 sacks and 37 quarterback pressures after two decent seasons as a situational player in 2009 and 2010. Brooks is an above average pass rusher who the 49ers want to resign, but they shouldn’t go crazy and overpay him, especially since they already have Aldon Smith. Brooks turns 28 in March.

26. CB Brent Grimes (Atlanta)- Franchise tagged

Brent Grimes would be rated higher if I didn’t have character concerns about him. ProFootballFocus rated Grimes as the 2^nd best cornerback in the league last season and with good reason. Grimes allowed just a 44.9% completion percentage and 4.6 YPA with 2 touchdowns to 1 interception last year and he is only 28 (29 in July). However, there’s rumors that Grimes might have been able to play in Atlanta’s playoff loss through a knee injury, but chose not to because he didn’t want to risk further injury before free agency. Add in that he could possibly hold out if he’s franchised tagged, as is rumored, and he’s a risky player to give a the 5-6 year deal he wants as he heads into his 30s. He wants a deal in the neighborhood of the 6 year 57 million dollar deal Atlanta gave Dunta Robinson in 2009. Grimes has outplayed Robinson over the last 2 seasons.

27. RLB/OLB Kamerion Wimbley (Oakland)- Signed with Tennessee for 5 years 35 million 13.5 million guaranteed

Wimbley is definitely a talented pass rusher, but the major question is his position. Wimbley seems like a natural fit for a 3-4 scheme as a rush linebacker, but he spent 4 nondescript years in Cleveland as a rush linebacker, only surpassing 6.5 sacks as a rookie in 2006. There’s a reason the Browns only got a 3rd rounder for him when they traded him to Oakland.

However, in Oakland he thrived in a 4-3, which wouldn’t seem like an obvious fit for him, but the Raiders used him creatively in that Brian Orakpo/Von Miller Joker role, using him at linebacker on running downs and then moving him to defensive end on passing downs. As a result, Wimbley was ProFootballFocus’ 3rd rated 4-3 outside linebacker in 2011 and 1st rated in 2010.

In 2010, he had 11 sacks and 21 pressures and in 2011 he had 6 sacks and 40 pressures, all while ranking above average (4th and 12th respectively at his position) against the run. That role is probably his best fit going forward, but not all teams have a spot for a player like that. Meanwhile, 3-4 teams will probably overpay for him. 3-4 teams need to remember his Cleveland days.

28. QB Alex Smith (San Francisco)- Resigned 3 years 24 million with 9 million guaranteed

Who would have thought Alex Smith would led the 49ers to a 13-3 record and within 2 special teams fumbles of the Super Bowl? He certainly had a lot of help, but Smith turned in what was definitely an above average season for the 49ers last year and showed clutch ability in their playoff win over the Saints. Is he perfect? No. Should he be the 49ers guy going forward? Absolutely. Expect him to get a deal in the neighborhood of what Kevin Kolb, Matt Cassel, and Ryan Fitzpatrick have gotten in recent years (5-6 years 10-12 million per). Believe it or not, Smith doesn’t turn 28 until May.

29. DE/RLB Cliff Avril (Detroit)- Franchise tagged

He’s not much use against the run, but his 37 quarterback pressures were 8^th in 2011 and his 11 sacks were 10^th. The Lions want to reach a long term deal with Avril, who turns 26 in April, and Avril has suggested he could hold out if he’s franchised. If he doesn’t resign with the Lions, who use a wide 9 scheme, he’d probably be best off in a 3-4 as a rush linebacker because of his lack of size and his great quickness.

30. WR DeSean Jackson (Philadelphia)- Resigned 5 years 51 million with 15 million guaranteed

A year ago, DeSean Jackson likely would have surpassed the 5 years 43 million that Sidney Rice got from Seattle last offseason. He was coming off a season in which he caught 62 passes for 1156 yards and 9 touchdowns and he was arguably the best deep threat in the NFL. However, the Eagles didn’t give Jackson an extension, opting to sign guys like Nnamdi Asomugha and Cullen Jenkins, in order to build the dream team. Jackson wasn’t too happy about this and the notoriously moody receiver was a malcontent all season. He was benched and suspended for violating team rules and gave 75% effort on the field. He still put up 62 catches for 912 yards and 2 touchdowns, a testament to his ability, but he likely cost himself about 10 million with his disappointing season. The Eagles have franchised him, but I don’t think they have any intention of keeping him. They just don’t want him to leave for nothing. A 2^nd rounder and a long term contract can you potentially a steal on someone who could become one of the best deep threats in the league once again. He’s not 26 until December.

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11. G Carl Nicks (New Orleans)- Signed with Tampa Bay for 5 years 47.5 million with 31 million guaranteed

Nicks was rated the 2^nd best guard in the league by ProFootballFocus and doesn’t turn 27 until May. He wants to be paid as such and wants to use teammate Jahri Evans’ 7 year 56.7 million dollar deal as a starting point for negotiations. With Drew Brees and Marques Colston also to resign, that could price Nicks out of New Orleans. Dallas is known to be very interested.  

12. WR Wes Welker (New England)- Franchise tagged

Since the Patriots traded for him in 2007, Welker has caught 554 passes for 6104 yards and 31 touchdowns, which makes him the most productive receiver in the league over that time and that’s even though he tore his ACL and MCL at the tail end of the 2009 season, which sapped his production in 2010. Welker turns 31 this offseason, which makes him older than most who are rated high on this list. I also wonder how productive he’d be outside of New England’s system and without Tom Brady throwing him the ball. But we won’t find out. Welker is expected to be franchised and it would be in his best interest to sign a team friendly deal and give a hometown discount.

13. MLB Stephen Tulloch (Detroit)- Resigned 5 years 25 million with 11 million guaranteed

Over the last 3 seasons, Tulloch has 392 tackles. Despite 160 tackles in 2010, Tulloch had to take a small one year deal in Detroit last offseason. He won’t come as cheap this offseason. Tulloch has played his whole career in a wide 9 scheme, starting in Tennessee and then in Detroit last year. For this reason, Philadelphia seems like the leader to sign him, though he could stay in Detroit.

14. RB Marshawn Lynch (Seattle)- Resigned for 4 years 32 million with 18 million guaranteed

Marshawn Lynch was one of the most productive and entertaining running backs in the league last year, rushing for 1204 yards and 12 touchdowns on 285 carries, but I would be worried about giving someone known as an underachiever with character issues a big, long term deal after finally living up to his potential in a contract year. The 2007 11^th overall pick, Lynch may stop giving 100% as soon as he gets paid. However, he doesn’t turn 26 until April and he is a former 1^st round pick. With 1137 career carries, a 4 year deal should be safe for him, but I do have some worries.

15. WR Vincent Jackson (San Diego)- Signed with Tampa Bay for 5 years 55.5 million with 26 million guaranteed

It looks like Vincent Jackson is finally going to get his money. After sitting out most of the season in 2010 to holdout and then almost holding up the lockout to ensure he couldn’t be franchise tagged before the 2011 season (unsuccessfully), Jackson is not expected to be franchise tagged this offseason, which would free him up to sign a long term deal anywhere. He could be back in San Diego, but I give him a 50/50 shot to leave. In his last 3 non-holdout seasons, Jackson has 187 catches for 3371 yards and 25 touchdowns, though having Philip Rivers at quarterback certainly helps. Jackson is one of the older players in the top 15, but he is only 29.

16. WR Marques Colston (New Orleans)- Resigned for 5 years 40 million with 19 million guaranteed

Colston was a mere 7^th round pick in 2006, but he had the last laugh as he and Drew Brees have combined for 449 catches, 6240 yards, and 48 touchdowns in 6 seasons. In every season in which he’s played more than 14 games, Colston has caught at least 70 passes for 1000 yards and 7 touchdowns, including 80 catches for 1143 yards and 8 touchdowns this season. You have to wonder how he’d do without Drew Brees, however. With New Orleans needing to resign Drew Brees and Carl Nicks as well, Colston could go elsewhere in search of more money. He turns 29 in June.

17. CB Cortland Finnegan (Tennessee)- Signed in St. Louis for 5 years 50 million with 24 million guaranteed

A 6 year starter in Tennessee, Finnegan could go elsewhere this offseason unless he’s franchised, possibly to St. Louis to reunite with Jeff Fisher. This season, he allowed just 5.6 YPA and 2 touchdowns all season, though he did so while picking off a mere 1 pass. In 6 years, Finnegan hasn’t displayed a lot of ball skills, picking off only 14 passes, just over 2 per season. The 5-10 cornerback just turned 28.

18. C Chris Myers (Houston)- Resigned 4 years 25 million with 14 million guaranteed

ProFootballFocus ranked Chris Myers as the top center in the league last year and rightfully so. He’s the leader of one of the best offensive lines in the league. The two questions with him are how good he’d be outside of Houston’s system and his age, 31 in September. Myers is worth more to Houston than any other team and should be their priority to resign, even if it means losing Mario Williams. Their defense was fine without Williams last year, but losing one offensive lineman can derail a whole line. Just ask Atlanta how much they miss Harvey Dahl.

19. MLB/OLB Curtis Lofton (Atlanta)- Signed with New Orleans 5 years 33.5 million

A 2^nd round pick in 2008, Lofton has emerged has one of the best middle linebackers in the league. 26 in June, Lofton has 398 tackles over the last 3 years and has been the vocal leader of Atlanta’s defense.

20. NT/DT Sione Pouha (NY Jets)- Resigned for 3 years 15 million with 9.5 million guaranteed

Not much of a pass rusher, but Pouha was ranked by ProFootballFocus as the 2^nd best run stuffing defensive tackle in the league last year and the best overall defensive tackle. 33 years old, Pouha has good value for at least 2-3 years as a 2 down run stuffer in a 3-4 or a 4-3 defense. The Jets will push to resign him.

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Italics = restricted free agent 

1. QB Drew Brees (New Orleans)- Franchise tagged (exclusive)

Easily the #1 free agent on the market, Brees is one of the top 3 or 4 quarterbacks in the league and at age 33, he should continue to be elite for 4-5 more years. Brees was Super Bowl MVP in February of 2010.

2. RB Arian Foster (Houston)- Resigned for 5 years 43.5 million with 20.75 million guaranteed

In 2 years as a starter, Foster has 4061 total yards despite missing 3 games with injury. Foster doesn’t turn 26 until August and he never had a serious injury. With just 659 carries in his career, Foster should theoretically remain one of the top backs in the league for 4-5 years. A true 3 down back, Foster could be franchised, but if he’s not, he could be signed away from the Texans by any team willing to surrender a 1^st round pick, unless the Texans can match.

3. QB Peyton Manning (Indianapolis)- Signed with Denver for 5 years 96 million with 18 million guaranteed

He may be 36 and coming off 4 neck surgeries in the past 2 years, but assuming the future first ballot Hall-of-Famer still wants to play, he will command a lot of attention on the open market. Manning has been recovering well from his injury and will be ready for week 1. The question is just how close to his former self he will be and how durable he will be as he starts to take hits. Still, he’s worth a shot for a team needing a quick fix at quarterback. Washington, Miami, Cleveland, Kansas City, Seattle, Arizona, and the New York Jets are all known to have varying levels of interest, with Washington, Miami, and Arizona being the most likely destinations for him. 

4. RB Ray Rice (Baltimore)- Franchise tagged

5885 total yards in the last 3 years, Rice is a true 3 down back who just turned 25. He’s such a big part of the Ravens offense and will be franchised in order to work out a long term deal. With 959 career carries, Rice figures to be one of the league’s best backs for 3-4 more years barring injury, something he’s never suffered (majorly) in his career.

5. RB Matt Forte (Chicago)- Franchise tagged

From 2008-2010, Forte had 4731 total yards. A great runner and pass protector, Forte was on his way to a career year in 2011 before suffering an injury which cost him the last 4.5 games of the season. This year, he had 1487 yards in 11.5 games and was his team’s leading receiver despite missing the time with injury. At 1014 career carries, Forte doesn’t turn 27 until December and had never suffered a major injury until this season. Way too big a part of his team’s offense, Forte will be franchised until a long term deal can be reached.

6. WR Mike Wallace (Pittsburgh)- Tendered (1^st round)

One of the fastest players in the league, Wallace has sub 4.3 speed and shows it on the field. Wallace has 3206 yards and 24 touchdowns in 3 seasons, including an amazing 18.7 yards per catch. One of the best deep threats in the league, Wallace doesn’t turn 26 until August and can be had for a 1^st rounder this year because of the Steelers cap situation. The Steelers won’t be able to match any deal that pays Wallace more than 12 million in its first year.

7. 3-4 DE/DT/DE Calais Campbell (Arizona)- Franchise tagged

Campbell fell to the 2^nd round because of character issues, but those haven’t surfaced in 4 years in Arizona. Over the last 3 seasons, the 6-8 300 pounder has 24 sacks as a 3-4 defensive end and should be able to play both 4-3 defensive tackle and left end. Only defensive player of the year candidate Justin Smith was rated higher than him at his position this season by ProFootballFocus. The best part might be that he’s not 26 until September. He’ll been franchised tagged and will remain with the Cardinals next season.

8. DE/RLB Mario Williams (Houston)- signed with Buffalo 6 years 100 million with 50 million guaranteed

The Texans got a lot of criticism for taking Williams over Reggie Bush and Vince Young #1 in 2006, but they got the last laugh. From 2007-2010, Williams had 43.5 sacks, 6^th most in the league over that span (DeMarcus Ware, Jared Allen, James Harrison, John Abraham, and Trent Cole). Williams did that while playing in the 280s throughout his career and being above average against the run. In 2011, he moved to the 3-4 (unheard of for someone his size), but flashed the necessary athleticism and had 5 sacks in 5 games before going down with a season ending injury. Only 27 years old, Williams has only had one major injury in his career and would be a welcome addition to any defense, regardless of scheme.

9. CB Lardarius Webb (Baltimore)- Tendered (1st round)

One of the most underrated players in the league, Webb doesn’t turn 27 until October. Because Baltimore franchised Ray Rice, Webb can be had for a 1^st round pick this offseason (though Baltimore can match). Coming off an injury riddled 2010, Webb had an awesome 2011 season in which he picked off 5 passes and deflected another 11, while not allowing a single touchdown. Overall, Webb allowed just a 55.6 QB rating in 2011 when thrown at, 4^th lowest of any cornerback who played more than 75% of his team’s snaps (Darrelle Revis, Chris Gamble, Ike Taylor).

10. WR Dwayne Bowe (Kansas City)- Franchise tagged

Bowe doesn’t turn 28 until September and has surpassed 995 yards in all 4 of the seasons in which he’s played all 16 games, despite not having consistent quarterback play throughout his career. Bowe is coming off a season in which he caught 81 passes for 1159 yards and 5 touchdowns with a mix of Matt Cassel, Tyler Palko, Kyle Orton at quarterback.

Average total drafted in last 5 years: 19.6

1. Fletcher Cox (Mississippi State) Top 15

2. Dontari Poe (Memphis) Top 20

3. Michael Brockers (LSU) Top 25

4. Devon Still (Penn State) 1-2

5. Jerel Worthy (Michigan State) 1-2

6. Kendall Reyes (Connecticut) 2

7. Brandon Thompson (Clemson) 2

8. Alameda Ta’amu (Washington) 2

9. Billy Winn (Boise State) 2-3

10. Mike Martin (Michigan) 2-3

11. Derek Wolfe (Cincinnati) 3-4

12. Akiem Hicks (Regina) 3-4

13. Josh Chapman (Alabama) 3-4

14. Kheeston Randall (Texas) 4-5

15. Marcus Forston (Miami) 4-5

16. Nicolas Jean-Baptiste (Baylor) 4-5

17. Jaye Howard (Florida) 5-6

18. DaJohn Harris (USC) 5-6

19. Brett Roy (Nevada) 5-6

20. Hebron Fangupo (BYU) 5-6

21. Tydreke Powell (North Carolina) 6-7

22. Mike Daniels (Iowa) 6-7

23. JR Sweezy (NC State) 7-U

24. Travian Robertson (South Carolina) 7-U

25. Vaughn Meatoga (Hawaii) 7-U

26. Dominique Hamilton (Missouri) 7-U

27. Marcus Kuhn (NC State) 7-U

28. Myles Wade (Portland State) 7-U

29. Logan Harrell (Fresno State) 7-U

Average total drafted in last 5 years: 26.4

1. Melvin Ingram (South Carolina) Top 15

2. Quinton Coples (North Carolina) Top 20

3. Courtney Upshaw (Alabama) 1

4. Whitney Mercilus (Illinois) 1

5. Shea McClellin (Boise State) 1

6. Chandler Jones (Syracuse) 1-2

7. Nick Perry (USC) 1-2

8. Andre Branch (Clemson) 2

9. Vinny Curry (Marshall) 2

10. Ronnell Lewis (Oklahoma) 2

11. Cam Johnson (Virginia) 3

12. Jared Crick (Nebraska) 3

13. Tyrone Crawford (Boise State) 3-4

14. Jonathan Massaquoi (Troy) 4-5

15. Trevor Guyton (California) 4-5

16. Jake Bequette (Arkansas) 4-5

17. Cordarro Law (Southern Mississippi) 4-5

18. Malik Jackson (Tennessee) 5-6

19. Frank Alexander (Oklahoma) 5-6

20. Olivier Vernon (Miami) 5-6

21. Jack Crawford (Penn State) 5-6

22. Donte Paige-Moss (North Carolina) 5-6

23. Brandon Lindsay (Pittsburgh) 6-7

24. Jacquies Smith (Missouri) 6-7

25. Tim Fugger (Vanderbilt) 6-7

26. Kourtnei Brown (Clemson) 6-7

27. Julian Miller (West Virginia) 7-U

28. Scott Solomon (Rice) 7-U

29. Ernest Owusu (California) 7-U

30. Justin Francis (Rutgers) 7-U

Average total drafted in last 5 years: 33.6

1. Morris Claiborne (LSU) Top 10

2. Stephon Gilmore (South Carolina) Top 25

3. Dre Kirkpatrick (Alabama) Top 25

4. Janoris Jenkins (North Alabama) 1-2

5. Josh Robinson (UCF) 2

6. Alfonzo Dennard (Nebraska) 2

7. Trumaine Johnson (Montana) 2

8. Jayron Hosley (Virginia Tech) 2-3

9. Brandon Boykin (Georgia) 2-3

10. Chase Minnifield (Virginia) 3

11. Dwight Bentley (LA-Lafayette) 3-4

12. Jamell Fleming (Oklahoma) 3-4

13. Casey Hayward (Vanderbilt) 3-4

14. Leonard Johnson (Iowa State) 3-4

15. Josh Norman (Coastal Carolina) 3-4

16. Justin Bethel (Presbyterian) 4-5

17. Ron Brooks (LSU) 4-5

18. Trevin Wade (Arizona) 4-5

19. DeQuan Menzie (Alabama) 4-5

20. Omar Bolden (Arizona State) 4-5

21. Ryan Steed (Furman) 4-5

22. Coryell Judie (Texas A&M) 4-5

23. Shaun Prater (Iowa) 4-5

24. Asa Jackson (Cal Poly) 5-6

25. Coty Sensabaugh (Clemson) 5-6

26. Mike Harris (Florida State) 6-7

27. RJ Blanton (Notre Dame) 6-7

28. Micah Pellarin (Hampton) 6-7

29. Chris Greenwood (Albion) 6-7

30. Keith Tandy (West Virginia) 6-7

31. Donnie Fletcher (Boston College) 6-7

32. Cliff Harris (Oregon) 7-U

33. Terrence Frederick (Texas A&M) 7-U

34. Charles Brown (North Carolina) 7-U

35. Antonio Fenelus (Wisconsin) 7-U

36. Cliff Harris (Oregon) 7-U

37. Greg McCoy (TCU) 7-U

38. D’Anton Lynn (Penn State) 7-U

39. Derrius Brooks (Western Kentucky) 7-U

40. AJ Davis (Jacksonville State) 7-U

Average total drafted in last 5 years: 6.4

1. Peter Konz (Wisconsin) 1-2

2. Ben Jones (Georgia) 3-4

3. Philip Blake (Baylor) 4-5

4. Michael Brewster (Ohio State) 4-5

5. David Molk (Michigan) 5-6

6. Quentin Saulsberry (Mississippi State) 6-7

7. Garth Gerhart (Arizona State) 7-U

8. Chris Anzevino (Kent State) 7-U 

9. William Vlachos (Alabama) 7-U

10. Scott Wedige (Northern Illinois) 7-U

100 Once in a decade prospect 
95-99 Elite talent 
90-95 Solid top 10 pick 
85-90 Solid first round pick 
80-85 Late 1st-early 2nd 
75-80 Solid 2nd round pick 
70-75 Solid 3rd round pick 
65-70 3rd-4th round pick 
60-65 4th-5th round pick 
55-60 5th round pick 
50-55 6th round pick 
45-50 7th round pick 
40-45 Priority free agent