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2006 NFL Free Agents: Cornerbacks and Safeties
By: Thomas J Gersey
1. Charles Woodson, Oakland [31 tackles, 1 INT]
It is no secret that Woodson has worn out his welcome in Oakland, and will be hitting the free agent market as early as he can. The primary reason stated by Oakland management will be that Woodson's skills have eroded to the point that he is no longer worth the money it will cost to keep him. While his on the field performance has certainly slipped over the years (culminating this season with a trip to the IR for a broken right leg) the real drain on Woodson's performance is better attributed to a lack of desire, and less to a lack of talent. Don't be fooled by the claims coming out of the East Bay, Woodson still has the ability to be a number one corner. What is missing is something to ignite the fire within him, something to push him to return to that elite level. An opportunity to play for a winner again, or to return to his midwest roots, may be the impetus Woodson needs to renew his career.
Already 29, teams should be wary of giving him a long term deal, however, they should not be afraid to insert him into their starting lineup. At 6'1, 200 lbs, Woodson is big and physical, with the ability to chuck receivers off the line before they can get into their routes. Although he lacks the closing speed of the game's premier corners, he is still quick enough to make up ground on most receivers. A step below elite players like Champ Bailey and Chris McAlister, Woodson still has the talent to compete with almost any corner in the game.
GOOD FITS: Detroit, Cleveland, Pittsburgh, New England, Kansas City, Arizona, New York Jets, Dallas
EARLY PICK: The Lions would make sense for the former Wolverine, as he could team with another free agent signing, Dre Bly, to form the division's second best corner duo. However, shaky management and lack of a defensive mindset may steer Woodson elsewhere. Teams like Pittsburgh and Kansas City would be ideal as they are already winners, a player or two away from being serious Super Bowl contenders. With Herm Edwards finally going to KC, both teams have defensive minded coaches who play a physical style. However, Cleveland and New England seem the best fits for Woodson. A native of Ohio, a return to his home state would give him the opportunity to work with Romeo Crennel, and to be the main fixture on a young, up and coming team. In addition, a team like the Browns is likely to be willing to over pay for Woodson, despite his injuries. If Woodson can sacrifice an immediate payday, then New England makes the most sense. Bill Belichik has a history of taking chances on players who wore out their welcome elsewhere (see: Corey Dillon, David Terrell, Rodney Harrison). Not all have worked out, but a player's personal history has never been a deterrant. After a hard fought season that saw the loss of numerous defensive players to injury, a physical corner like Woodson would fit in nicely in New England, and help return the Patriots to the top of the AFC.
2. Nate Clements, BUFF [102 tackles, 2 INT]
Clements has always been a good fit in Buffalo, and this season he did a solid job replacing Antoine Winfield as the team's primary corner. The 2 interceptions are not indicative of Clements' cover ability, as his 102 tackles reflect the amount of time he spent bringing down ball carriers who slipped through the pourous Buffalo run defense. Bigger than one might think, Clements was a very physical presence, forcing three fumbles, while remaining a ball hawk in the secondary, defending 13 passes.
Yet, for all of his statistical accomplishments, Clements failed to show the flare and athletic superiority of the game's elite corners. That, however, hasn't stopped him and his agent from seeking to make Clements the NFL's highest paid corner. Although it is highly unlikely he will be paid more than the current leader in salary, Champ Bailey, it is guaranteed that his asking price will take him out of Buffalo. An above average defender, and only 26 years old, Clements would be a tremendous loss to the Bills. However, numbers like 50-60 million dollars will be too much for a team that is more than a player away from solving their problems. Look for Clements to bolt to the highest bidder, with little regard for intangibles such as a winning team or a defensive system that plays to his strengths (see: Duane Starks, Arizona).
GOOD FITS: Cleveland, Cincinnati, Pittsburgh, Arizona, New York Jets, St Louis
EARLY PICK: A lot of familiar names pop up, and that is to be expected. However, Clements, while younger and healthier than Woodson, will also be pricier. Teams like Cincy and Cleveland will most likely be the first to contact the Ohio native and former Buckeye, with Cincy bowing out for lack of need and cap room. The Jets will be reluctant to overpay when they have so many other holes to fill, while Arizona is stil reeling from the last free agent they signed to play cornerback. In the end, it will come down to whether or not Buffalo franchises Clements. If they do, they are likely to have a locker room cancer for the entire year. Assuming they are scared off by that prospect, expect teams like St Louis, Houston and Pittsburgh to get into a bidding war for his services.
3. Adam Archuleta, St Louis [70 tackles, 3.5 sacks, 1 INT]
For years Archuleta has been known as a workout freak, but for all of his physical gifts, he has failed to become the dominant player many envisioned when he was a first round pick in 2001. At 223 lbs, with excellent speed, Archuleta was at his best in Lovie Smith's scheme, focusing more on attacking the ball, and less on maintaining his positioning. Under new Def Coordinator Joe Vitt, more focus was put on the zone, and Archuleta was left in open space while less talented players attempted to make plays across the field. Archuleta needs the ability to freelance, and a change of scenery would do him so good. The only real worry is that his aggressive style will get him into injury trouble, a problem that struck at the end of 2005 when he sat out the final game with a concussion. However, that fear should be assuaged by the knowledge that Archuleta is a true warrior, and plays to the maximum of his ability at all times. There is little risk he will coast through a long term contract like so many players before him.
GOOD FITS: Chicago, Minnesota, Cleveland, Oakland, Arizona, NY Giants
EARLY PICK: Cleveland and Arizona are going to be in on every blue chip free agent, as they are so far under the cap. However, Archuleta is likely to look for two things: (a) a good system, and (b) a winner. While Minnesota would be a good fit with their questions as to whether or not Corey Chavous and Brian Williams will be back, I like Chicago as a sleeper to get Archuleta at a slight discount. When Mike Brown and Chris Harris went down late in the year, backups Mike Green and Todd Johnson were exposed for their limitations. While Harris was a revelation as a rookie, the chance to upgrade with Archuleta would be too much to pass up. A former Lovie Smith disciple, Archuleta is a smaller version of Urlacher who would team with the Defensive Player of the Year to send more than one ball carrier to the IR next season.
4. Will Allen, CB, New York Giants [70 tackles, 0 INT]
If your team is looking for a cornerback, and they can't break the bank, then keep a close eye on this Syracuse alum when he matches up with Steve Smith in the first round of the playoffs. Listed at 5'10, 196, Allen plays bigger than he looks. Physical off the line of scrimmage, he has the requisite speed to keep up with a majority of the league's number one wideouts. His lack of interceptions this season are more a result of teams wanting to take a shot at rookie Corey Webster on the other side of the field. A former first rounder, Allen has been a mainstay in the Giants' secondary from day one. A consumate professional, he is consistent, and makes few mistakes over the course of a game. After being more of a gambler early on in his career, he has settled into the role of the team's primary corner, spending most of his time focused on minimizing the effect of the other team's star wideout. He would make a solid addition to any team looking for more consistent play on the outside.
GOOD FITS: Pittsburgh, Dallas, Denver, Indianapolis, Jacksonville, Minnesota, Arizona
EARLY PICK: The first five teams on the list are all excellent places for Allen to consider. Strong franchises looking for a solid if unspectacular veteran presence to play opposite younger players (Colclough, Newman, Marlin Jackson, Rashean Mathis), except for in Denver, where Allen would be among the league's top #2 corners. In Minnesota, he would help in the rebuilding effort alongside Winfield, while Arizona would certainly look to him to be the number one guy while they bring first rounder Antrel Rolle along. In the end, however, the Giants are likely to pay whatever it takes to hold on to Allen. Outside of the linebacker position, the Giants have very few needs, and are certain to spend whatever money they have on keeping their top players in Giant blue.
5. Tank Williams, S, Tennessee Titans [78 tackles, 1 INT]
Williams moves to the top of a solid if unspectacular group of remaining free agents. An excellent athlete, Williams has become a solid contributer over the years despite the deterioration of the Titans on the field. Not much of a ball hawk, Williams is an excellent tackler and reads plays well, always there to meet a ball carrier once he reaches his particular zone. The antithesis of Archuleta, Williams is more cereberal and caluclating, lining up big hits rather than seeking them out. He would be a calming presence in a young secondary, and less expensive than the flashier Archuleta, while offering the bonus of being three years younger.
GOOD FITS: Oakland, NY Jets, New Orleans
EARLY PICK: The Raiders currently have terrible cap problems, but releasing Woodson and some other veterans may give Al Davis enough room to bring in a player such as Williams. A former Stanford player, he would bring a veteran presence to an extremely young secondary. If the money isnt there, teams like the Jets or the Saints may prove to be a better alternative. New Orleans especially as Williams is a Gulfport, MS native. In the end, Tennessee will be as active in signing Williams as any other team, and will likely be in the bidding with Oakland and New Orleans to the very end.
OTHER FREE AGENTS OF NOTE:
Ricky Manning, CB, Carolina (RFA): A bit undersized, the addition of Ken Lucas has moved Manning to the nickel spot, where he is better suited. If a team is willing to pay him a starting corner's salary, the Panthers may be loathe to match it. However, the likelihood of that happening is not very high.
Lance Shulters, S, Miami: Not the player he once was, he would still offer a low cost alternative for a team seriously lacking at the free safety position. However, Miami would be in serious trouble if they lost Schulters, and will definitely try and sign him before March, unless they plan on drafting his replacement. Might be on Washington's radar.
Jamar Fletcher, CB, San Diego: A fomer first rounder, Fletcher wore out his welcome in Miami with inconsistent play. However, as a nickelback in San Diego, he found a home. Not likely to be as valuable as a starting cornerback, he would be a spectacular addition to a team that already has a solid set of corners, like Baltimore, Atlanta or Washington.
Jerry Azumah, CB, Chicago: Will only leave if he can get a starting job elsewhere, after losing his spot in Chicago to Pro Bowler Nathan Vasher. If he can't find a starting job, Chicago will certainly bring him back as a nickelback, unless they do sign Archuleta and move Chris Harris to the nickel spot. Either way, Azumah will likely be a third corner somewhere, while also assuming kick return duties, where the former running back has been spectacular in the past.
Deion Sanders, CB/S, Baltimore: He's old, a step slower, and still tackles with the ferocity of the "Fallen, and I cant get up" -lady. But he can still read a route better than anyone, and in his new spot as a safety, could excel in an opportunistic defense focused on creating turnovers. However, he remains a liability against the run, and is probably nothing more than a specialty player akin to a situational lefty in baseball.
By: Thomas J Gersey
1. Charles Woodson, Oakland [31 tackles, 1 INT]
It is no secret that Woodson has worn out his welcome in Oakland, and will be hitting the free agent market as early as he can. The primary reason stated by Oakland management will be that Woodson's skills have eroded to the point that he is no longer worth the money it will cost to keep him. While his on the field performance has certainly slipped over the years (culminating this season with a trip to the IR for a broken right leg) the real drain on Woodson's performance is better attributed to a lack of desire, and less to a lack of talent. Don't be fooled by the claims coming out of the East Bay, Woodson still has the ability to be a number one corner. What is missing is something to ignite the fire within him, something to push him to return to that elite level. An opportunity to play for a winner again, or to return to his midwest roots, may be the impetus Woodson needs to renew his career.
Already 29, teams should be wary of giving him a long term deal, however, they should not be afraid to insert him into their starting lineup. At 6'1, 200 lbs, Woodson is big and physical, with the ability to chuck receivers off the line before they can get into their routes. Although he lacks the closing speed of the game's premier corners, he is still quick enough to make up ground on most receivers. A step below elite players like Champ Bailey and Chris McAlister, Woodson still has the talent to compete with almost any corner in the game.
GOOD FITS: Detroit, Cleveland, Pittsburgh, New England, Kansas City, Arizona, New York Jets, Dallas
EARLY PICK: The Lions would make sense for the former Wolverine, as he could team with another free agent signing, Dre Bly, to form the division's second best corner duo. However, shaky management and lack of a defensive mindset may steer Woodson elsewhere. Teams like Pittsburgh and Kansas City would be ideal as they are already winners, a player or two away from being serious Super Bowl contenders. With Herm Edwards finally going to KC, both teams have defensive minded coaches who play a physical style. However, Cleveland and New England seem the best fits for Woodson. A native of Ohio, a return to his home state would give him the opportunity to work with Romeo Crennel, and to be the main fixture on a young, up and coming team. In addition, a team like the Browns is likely to be willing to over pay for Woodson, despite his injuries. If Woodson can sacrifice an immediate payday, then New England makes the most sense. Bill Belichik has a history of taking chances on players who wore out their welcome elsewhere (see: Corey Dillon, David Terrell, Rodney Harrison). Not all have worked out, but a player's personal history has never been a deterrant. After a hard fought season that saw the loss of numerous defensive players to injury, a physical corner like Woodson would fit in nicely in New England, and help return the Patriots to the top of the AFC.
2. Nate Clements, BUFF [102 tackles, 2 INT]
Clements has always been a good fit in Buffalo, and this season he did a solid job replacing Antoine Winfield as the team's primary corner. The 2 interceptions are not indicative of Clements' cover ability, as his 102 tackles reflect the amount of time he spent bringing down ball carriers who slipped through the pourous Buffalo run defense. Bigger than one might think, Clements was a very physical presence, forcing three fumbles, while remaining a ball hawk in the secondary, defending 13 passes.
Yet, for all of his statistical accomplishments, Clements failed to show the flare and athletic superiority of the game's elite corners. That, however, hasn't stopped him and his agent from seeking to make Clements the NFL's highest paid corner. Although it is highly unlikely he will be paid more than the current leader in salary, Champ Bailey, it is guaranteed that his asking price will take him out of Buffalo. An above average defender, and only 26 years old, Clements would be a tremendous loss to the Bills. However, numbers like 50-60 million dollars will be too much for a team that is more than a player away from solving their problems. Look for Clements to bolt to the highest bidder, with little regard for intangibles such as a winning team or a defensive system that plays to his strengths (see: Duane Starks, Arizona).
GOOD FITS: Cleveland, Cincinnati, Pittsburgh, Arizona, New York Jets, St Louis
EARLY PICK: A lot of familiar names pop up, and that is to be expected. However, Clements, while younger and healthier than Woodson, will also be pricier. Teams like Cincy and Cleveland will most likely be the first to contact the Ohio native and former Buckeye, with Cincy bowing out for lack of need and cap room. The Jets will be reluctant to overpay when they have so many other holes to fill, while Arizona is stil reeling from the last free agent they signed to play cornerback. In the end, it will come down to whether or not Buffalo franchises Clements. If they do, they are likely to have a locker room cancer for the entire year. Assuming they are scared off by that prospect, expect teams like St Louis, Houston and Pittsburgh to get into a bidding war for his services.
3. Adam Archuleta, St Louis [70 tackles, 3.5 sacks, 1 INT]
For years Archuleta has been known as a workout freak, but for all of his physical gifts, he has failed to become the dominant player many envisioned when he was a first round pick in 2001. At 223 lbs, with excellent speed, Archuleta was at his best in Lovie Smith's scheme, focusing more on attacking the ball, and less on maintaining his positioning. Under new Def Coordinator Joe Vitt, more focus was put on the zone, and Archuleta was left in open space while less talented players attempted to make plays across the field. Archuleta needs the ability to freelance, and a change of scenery would do him so good. The only real worry is that his aggressive style will get him into injury trouble, a problem that struck at the end of 2005 when he sat out the final game with a concussion. However, that fear should be assuaged by the knowledge that Archuleta is a true warrior, and plays to the maximum of his ability at all times. There is little risk he will coast through a long term contract like so many players before him.
GOOD FITS: Chicago, Minnesota, Cleveland, Oakland, Arizona, NY Giants
EARLY PICK: Cleveland and Arizona are going to be in on every blue chip free agent, as they are so far under the cap. However, Archuleta is likely to look for two things: (a) a good system, and (b) a winner. While Minnesota would be a good fit with their questions as to whether or not Corey Chavous and Brian Williams will be back, I like Chicago as a sleeper to get Archuleta at a slight discount. When Mike Brown and Chris Harris went down late in the year, backups Mike Green and Todd Johnson were exposed for their limitations. While Harris was a revelation as a rookie, the chance to upgrade with Archuleta would be too much to pass up. A former Lovie Smith disciple, Archuleta is a smaller version of Urlacher who would team with the Defensive Player of the Year to send more than one ball carrier to the IR next season.
4. Will Allen, CB, New York Giants [70 tackles, 0 INT]
If your team is looking for a cornerback, and they can't break the bank, then keep a close eye on this Syracuse alum when he matches up with Steve Smith in the first round of the playoffs. Listed at 5'10, 196, Allen plays bigger than he looks. Physical off the line of scrimmage, he has the requisite speed to keep up with a majority of the league's number one wideouts. His lack of interceptions this season are more a result of teams wanting to take a shot at rookie Corey Webster on the other side of the field. A former first rounder, Allen has been a mainstay in the Giants' secondary from day one. A consumate professional, he is consistent, and makes few mistakes over the course of a game. After being more of a gambler early on in his career, he has settled into the role of the team's primary corner, spending most of his time focused on minimizing the effect of the other team's star wideout. He would make a solid addition to any team looking for more consistent play on the outside.
GOOD FITS: Pittsburgh, Dallas, Denver, Indianapolis, Jacksonville, Minnesota, Arizona
EARLY PICK: The first five teams on the list are all excellent places for Allen to consider. Strong franchises looking for a solid if unspectacular veteran presence to play opposite younger players (Colclough, Newman, Marlin Jackson, Rashean Mathis), except for in Denver, where Allen would be among the league's top #2 corners. In Minnesota, he would help in the rebuilding effort alongside Winfield, while Arizona would certainly look to him to be the number one guy while they bring first rounder Antrel Rolle along. In the end, however, the Giants are likely to pay whatever it takes to hold on to Allen. Outside of the linebacker position, the Giants have very few needs, and are certain to spend whatever money they have on keeping their top players in Giant blue.
5. Tank Williams, S, Tennessee Titans [78 tackles, 1 INT]
Williams moves to the top of a solid if unspectacular group of remaining free agents. An excellent athlete, Williams has become a solid contributer over the years despite the deterioration of the Titans on the field. Not much of a ball hawk, Williams is an excellent tackler and reads plays well, always there to meet a ball carrier once he reaches his particular zone. The antithesis of Archuleta, Williams is more cereberal and caluclating, lining up big hits rather than seeking them out. He would be a calming presence in a young secondary, and less expensive than the flashier Archuleta, while offering the bonus of being three years younger.
GOOD FITS: Oakland, NY Jets, New Orleans
EARLY PICK: The Raiders currently have terrible cap problems, but releasing Woodson and some other veterans may give Al Davis enough room to bring in a player such as Williams. A former Stanford player, he would bring a veteran presence to an extremely young secondary. If the money isnt there, teams like the Jets or the Saints may prove to be a better alternative. New Orleans especially as Williams is a Gulfport, MS native. In the end, Tennessee will be as active in signing Williams as any other team, and will likely be in the bidding with Oakland and New Orleans to the very end.
OTHER FREE AGENTS OF NOTE:
Ricky Manning, CB, Carolina (RFA): A bit undersized, the addition of Ken Lucas has moved Manning to the nickel spot, where he is better suited. If a team is willing to pay him a starting corner's salary, the Panthers may be loathe to match it. However, the likelihood of that happening is not very high.
Lance Shulters, S, Miami: Not the player he once was, he would still offer a low cost alternative for a team seriously lacking at the free safety position. However, Miami would be in serious trouble if they lost Schulters, and will definitely try and sign him before March, unless they plan on drafting his replacement. Might be on Washington's radar.
Jamar Fletcher, CB, San Diego: A fomer first rounder, Fletcher wore out his welcome in Miami with inconsistent play. However, as a nickelback in San Diego, he found a home. Not likely to be as valuable as a starting cornerback, he would be a spectacular addition to a team that already has a solid set of corners, like Baltimore, Atlanta or Washington.
Jerry Azumah, CB, Chicago: Will only leave if he can get a starting job elsewhere, after losing his spot in Chicago to Pro Bowler Nathan Vasher. If he can't find a starting job, Chicago will certainly bring him back as a nickelback, unless they do sign Archuleta and move Chris Harris to the nickel spot. Either way, Azumah will likely be a third corner somewhere, while also assuming kick return duties, where the former running back has been spectacular in the past.
Deion Sanders, CB/S, Baltimore: He's old, a step slower, and still tackles with the ferocity of the "Fallen, and I cant get up" -lady. But he can still read a route better than anyone, and in his new spot as a safety, could excel in an opportunistic defense focused on creating turnovers. However, he remains a liability against the run, and is probably nothing more than a specialty player akin to a situational lefty in baseball.
